How can we support those who "welcome the brothers" despite opposition? Living the Lesson of 3 John 1:10 “So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, gossiping maliciously about us. Not content with that, he even refuses to welcome the brothers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.” (3 John 1:10) The need is clear: some believers gladly receive faithful workers, yet others oppose them. How do we come alongside the Gaius-hearted saints who still “welcome the brothers” in the face of Diotrephes-style resistance? Understanding the Battle Lines • Welcoming traveling ministers was normal first-century practice (3 John 1:5–8). • Diotrephes rejected that duty, slandered the apostles, and bullied hospitable saints (1:10). • Scripture treats both hospitality and the defense of truth as non-negotiable commands, not optional extras (Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2; 2 John 1:10). Why Our Support Matters • It vindicates the gospel’s reputation—opposition should never out-shout love (John 13:35). • It shields faithful hosts from isolation and discouragement (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12). • It honors Christ Himself: “Whoever receives you receives Me” (Matthew 10:40). • It ensures workers lack nothing and can keep preaching (3 John 1:8). Practical Ways to Stand With Them • Affirm them verbally – Send notes, calls, or in-person encouragement: “Your love refreshes the saints” (Philemon 1:7). • Back them publicly – Speak up against slander, just as John promised to “call attention” to Diotrephes’ actions (3 John 1:10). – Use influence to protect their place in the fellowship (Acts 15:2). • Share resources – Provide meals, lodging, funding, or travel help for the brothers they host (Galatians 6:6). – Cover practical needs so hospitality doesn’t become a financial burden (Philippians 4:16–18). • Stand with them physically – Be present when missionaries arrive; two or three witnesses quiet hostile voices (Matthew 18:16). – Invite the brothers into your own home to spread the load (Romans 16:23). • Intercede faithfully – “Strive together with me in prayers to God” (Romans 15:30) for boldness, protection, and fruit. • Model the same attitude – Hospitality spreads by example (1 Peter 4:9). – Replace fear of reprisal with eagerness to serve, knowing “God has not given us a spirit of fear” (2 Timothy 1:7). Biblical Portraits of Courageous Support • Onesiphorus “often refreshed” Paul and “was not ashamed of my chains” (2 Timothy 1:16–18). • Lydia opened her house to the gospel team in Philippi (Acts 16:15, 40). • Jason sheltered Paul and Silas under persecution (Acts 17:5–9). • Priscilla and Aquila risked their necks for Paul and hosted a house church (Romans 16:3–5). The Promise That Propels Us “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown for His name as you have ministered to the saints and continue to do so.” (Hebrews 6:10) Keep welcoming. Keep standing with those who do. The opposition is temporary; the reward is eternal. |
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