How can we prioritize personal communication in our relationships, like John in 3 John? Setting the Scene: John’s Heart in One Line “ I have many things to write to you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink.” (3 John 1:13) John’s brief remark reveals a passion for seeing believers face-to-face. He values personal presence above even inspired correspondence. Why Personal Words Matter • Created for fellowship: From Eden forward, God meets people personally (Genesis 3:8; Exodus 33:11). • Faith is relational: “For I long to see you… that we may be mutually encouraged” (Romans 1:11-12). • Iron sharpens iron: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). • Love incarnate: Jesus “became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14), embodying God’s message in person. • Written words are good, but presence completes them: 2 John 1:12 echoes 3 John 1:13. Practical Ways to Pursue Face-to-Face Fellowship 1. Schedule it intentionally • Set recurring times for meals, visits, and gatherings. • Guard the calendar from lesser commitments (Ephesians 5:15-16). 2. Use technology as a bridge, not a substitute • Send texts or emails to arrange in-person meetings, not to replace them. • Video calls when distance is unavoidable (Philippians 1:8). 3. Show up with undivided attention • Put the phone away (James 1:19). • Listen before speaking; value the other’s story. 4. Bring Scripture into conversation naturally • Share a verse that shaped your week. • Read a psalm aloud during a visit (Colossians 3:16). 5. Practice hospitality • Open your home (1 Peter 4:9). • Offer simple food; the table invites deeper talk. 6. Walk together in ministry • Serve side-by-side: hospital visits, local outreach, prayer walks (Acts 20:20). Guarding Against Common Hurdles • Busyness: Evaluate commitments; trim what hinders fellowship (Luke 10:41-42). • Fear of vulnerability: Remember love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). • Distance: Form travel plans, write letters as placeholders, but aim to visit (2 Timothy 1:4). • Conflict avoidance: Face issues swiftly and graciously (Matthew 18:15). A Lifestyle of Intentional Connection • Make personal presence a conviction, not a convenience. • Expect fruit: deeper joy, strengthened faith, visible love (John 13:34-35). • Like John, let written words point toward meetings “so that our joy may be complete” (2 John 1:12). |
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