Between Sisters Blog | All Star Team Captain
Next John sends word that Demetrius is coming to Gaius and his church. He points out that Demetrius has received a good recommendation from 3 different sources. First, he comes recommended by everyone. Second, he has received a good witness or testimony from the truth itself. His own character and way of living is consistent with the truth of the gospel. Third, John himself commends Demetrius and reminds Gaius that “you know that our testimony is true. In John’s eyes, these three things are enough to show that Demetrius is to be trusted. We can contrast this with Diotrephes and see how the traveling teachers and even those ousted from the church have voiced concern about his character. Diotrephes’ own self-centered, power-hungry character is testifying for itself. And finally, John has seen red flags all over that Diotrephes needs to be confronted and reminded of the calling of a shepherd of a church body.
In closing, John speaks of his desire to speak “mouth-to-mouth” (like 2 John) and wishes peace, “God’s covenant blessing, protection, and provision in its fullness,” to come to Gaius. He also asks Gaius to greet the friends, each by name. What an amazing gift to hear your pastor say “Oh, John, the one loved by Jesus, told me to greet you on his behalf!” What joy this must have brought them to be known by the last living apostle of Jesus!
So where do you fit into the team? Are you the one vying for the MVP and not caring for the team’s growth and communication? Or are you the team member who is marked by humility and love for the people of Christ’s Church?
Spurgeon once said, “Be content to be nothing, for that is what you are.” David Allen paints a beautiful picture of how we should view humility as believers. “Instead of an unwelcome intruder, seek to make humility the spouse of your soul to whom you have wedded yourself forever.”