Confront Controlling Leaders

Gaius, the Hospitable (1-8)

John opened by praying for Gaius's well-being and health (1-2) and then took a moment to rejoice in Gaius for what had become John's greatest joy, to hear followers of Jesus were walking in truth (3-4). John commended Gaius for being faithful to care for the visiting leaders and teachers dependent upon the hospitality of local believers. John told Gaius that leaders he was caring for were spreading the word to others churches about just how kind Gaius had been (5). John averred that it was a good thing to have sent them on their way in such a worthy manner (6) and gave Gaius a bit of background concerning these traveling leaders. They went out completely dependent upon the good nature of the church members they were visiting to care and provide for them. When Gaius hosted them, he was becoming a fellow worker in spreading the gospel (7-8).

Diotrephes, the Usurper (9-10)

John then discussed the other kind of leader, the one who wanted to be first all the time, the one who refused to acknowledge authority, the one lusting for power and prestige—Diotrephes (9). John was clear: if he could get to Gaius and the church he and Diotrephes were connected to, John was going to confront Diotrephes for his malicious gossip. Beyond the gossip, Diotrephes had been refusing to host and give honor to the traveling teachers who were likely carrying letters of recommendation for other leaders. No doubt that this whole line of communication was encouraging Gaius to continue caring for the traveling teachers even if Diotrephes was position-crazy (10). 

Demetrius, the Trusted (11-12)

Demetrius may have been one of those traveling teachers Diotrephes had rejected. John wanted Gaius to know that Demetrius's life was backed up by the truth he was living, along with all who knew him. John went on to tell Gaius not to imitate a leader like Diotrephes but instead a leader like Demetrius (11-12).

John, the Absent (13-15)

John did not want to say any more in writing than he already had (13); he was going to try to get there as soon as he could and handle the situation personally (14). John concluded by asking Gaius to greet a special group of friends for him personally by name (15).