February 25, 2016
Scripture Reading: 3 John 5-8
5Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. 6They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God. 7It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. 8We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.
Questions for Reflection:
John has been writing to commend Gaius. What does he commend him for in this passage? Why was it so crucial for John that Gaius acted in a hospitable manner? In a purely practical sense, John knew he was planning an upcoming visit. However, beyond the practical, John wanted to encourage Gaius hospitality because of what it communicated in the world of biblical times. Christine Pohl, professor at Asbury Theological Seminary, writes:
In ancient times, hospitality was viewed as a pillar on which the moral structure of the world rested. It was a highly valued moral practice, seen as an important expression of kindness, mutual aid, neighborliness, and a response to the life of faith. Hospitality addressed the physical needs of strangers for food, shelter, and protection, but also included recognition of their worth and common humanity.
How did Gaius demonstrate this hospitality? Verse 6 offers one clue. Not only did Gaius welcome in the missionaries and care for them while they were with him, he also positioned them for future ministry by sending “them on their way in a manner that honors God.” Stephen Smalley in his commentary notes, “Such an act would include the provision of supplies for the return journey.”
In verse 7, John reminds Gaius that the missionaries were completely dependent on the church for support and assistance. However, according to verse 8, there is a benefit for us as well when we partner with missionaries. What is that benefit? Has there been a time when you partnered with an organization or individual financially and felt like you were a part of the team by doing so? When we support others, in a real sense, we get to work together with them for the truth. In what ways are you practically supporting others that are on the frontlines of ministry? How are you working together with them for the truth?
For Further Study:
If you’d like to read more about hospitality in biblical times and the implications for how we live as followers of Jesus today, read Christine Pohl’s full article here.