The Elder expresses his love and appreciation for Gaius, who is walking in the truth and showing hospitality to traveling brothers. He commends Gaius for his charity and encourages him to continue supporting those who are spreading the truth. In contrast, Diotrephes is rebuked for his arrogance and refusal to accept the Elder and other brothers, and for hindering those who do receive them. The Elder concludes by commending Demetrius, who has a good testimony, and expresses his hope to see Gaius soon.
1 The Elder, to Gaius, most beloved, whom I love in the truth 2 Most beloved, concerning everything, I make it my prayer that you may benefit by advancing and succeeding in whatever may be to the benefit of your soul 3 I was very glad when the brothers arrived, and when they offered testimony to the truth in you, that you are walking in the truth 4 I have no greater grace than this, when I hear that my sons are walking in the truth 5 Most beloved, you should act faithfully in whatever you do for the brothers, and those who are sojourners 6 they have given testimony to your charity in the sight of the Church. You would do well to lead these ones worthily to God 7 For they set out, on behalf of his name, accepting nothing from the unbelievers 8 Therefore, we must accept such as these, in order that we may cooperate with the truth 9 As it happens, I had written to the church. But Diotrephes, who loves to bear the highest rank among them, would not accept us 10 Because of this, when I come, I will admonish his works which he does, babbling against us with malicious words. And as if this were not sufficient for him, he himself does not receive the brothers. And those who do receive them, he hinders, and he ejects them from the church 11 Most beloved, do not be willing to imitate what is evil; instead imitate what is good. Whoever does good is of God. Whoever does evil has not seen God 12 Testimony is being given for Demetrius by everyone, and by the truth itself. And we also offer testimony. And you know that our testimony is true 13 I had many things to write to you, but I am not willing, through ink and pen, to write to you 14 Yet I hope to see you soon, and then we will speak face to face. Peace to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends by name