How does 3 John 1:3 connect with Jesus' teachings on truth in John 14:6?

◄ Link 3 John 1:3 to John 14:6 on truth. ►

Truth celebrated in 3 John 1:3

“For I was overjoyed when some brothers arrived and testified about your faithfulness to the truth—how you continue to walk in the truth.”

• John writes with overflowing joy because believers are “walking”––living––in truth.

• The truth is not merely a concept they agree with but a path they actively follow.

• Their lifestyle validates the gospel they profess, causing others to testify about them.

Truth defined by Christ in John 14:6

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’”

• Jesus identifies Himself as Truth incarnate; truth is personal, not abstract.

• He is the exclusive mediator to the Father. Truth, then, is anchored in His person and work.

• Every claim to truth must be measured against Him.

How the two passages connect

1. Same author, unified theme

– The apostle John wrote both books. His consistent emphasis: genuine believers embrace and practice truth.

2. Walking in truth = walking in Christ

– If Jesus is Truth (John 14:6), then “walking in the truth” (3 John 1:3) means living in obedient fellowship with Him.

3. Testimony points back to Jesus

– The brothers’ report about Gaius’ life (3 John) is really a witness to Christ’s transforming power.

4. Experiencing joy through truth

– John’s joy (3 John 1:3) mirrors the joy Jesus promised when His words abide in us (John 15:11).

Supporting scriptures

• 3 John 1:4 – “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

• John 8:31-32 – “If you abide in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

• 2 John 1:4 – “I rejoiced greatly to find some of your children walking in the truth.”

• 1 John 2:6 – “Whoever claims to abide in Him must walk as Jesus walked.”

• Ephesians 4:21 – “Surely you heard of Him and were taught in Him, in keeping with the truth that is in Jesus.”

Practical takeaways

• Examine: Is my concept of truth centered on the living Christ?

• Live: Truth is authenticated by a consistent, obedient walk.

• Encourage: Like the visiting brothers, affirm fellow believers who faithfully walk in Christ.

• Rejoice: Genuine truth-filled living brings joy to spiritual mentors and magnifies Jesus.