Diotrephes is a figure mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Third Epistle of John. His actions and character provide a cautionary example of malice within the early Christian church. The Apostle John addresses the issue of Diotrephes in 3 John 1:9-10, where he writes, "I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church" .

Diotrephes is characterized by his desire for preeminence and his rejection of apostolic authority. His behavior is marked by several key elements of malice:

1. Pride and Ambition: Diotrephes is described as someone "who loves to be first." This indicates a self-centered ambition that places personal status above the unity and well-being of the church. His pride leads him to reject the authority of the Apostle John, a foundational leader of the early Christian community.

2. Slander and False Accusations: John accuses Diotrephes of "spreading malicious nonsense" about the apostolic circle. This suggests that Diotrephes engaged in slander, using false or exaggerated claims to undermine the reputation and authority of others. Such behavior is a direct violation of the biblical exhortation to speak truthfully and lovingly (Ephesians 4:15).

3. Inhospitality and Division: Diotrephes not only refuses to welcome John and his associates but also actively prevents others from doing so. His actions create division within the church, as he "puts them out of the church"—a severe measure that disrupts fellowship and community. This inhospitality contrasts sharply with the biblical call to love and welcome one another (Romans 12:13).

4. Abuse of Authority: By expelling those who disagree with him, Diotrephes abuses his position of influence within the church. His actions reflect a misuse of authority, prioritizing personal power over the spiritual health and unity of the congregation.

The account of Diotrephes serves as a warning against the dangers of malice, pride, and authoritarianism within the church. His example highlights the importance of humility, truthfulness, and hospitality in maintaining the integrity and unity of the Christian community. The Apostle John's response underscores the need for accountability and the rejection of divisive behavior that contradicts the teachings of Christ.3 John 1:10
Why, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he does, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither does he himself receive the brothers, and forbids them that would, and casts them out of the church.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Epistles of St. John
... to this period. The apostle evidently intends to punish Diotrephes for
his malice when he visits the district again. It is just ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter xxiii the epistles of.htm

Introductory Note to Iren??us against Heresies
... that it was all foretold by Christ himself, and demonstrates the malice and power
of ... so that the heresy of Eleutherus, and the spirit of Diotrephes in Victor ...
/.../irenaeus/against heresies/introductory note to irenaeus against.htm

The Theory of the Church, and the History of Its Perversion.
... and casteth them out of the Church." [640:1] This Diotrephes seems to have ... disobedient,
deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/chapter xiii the theory of.htm

Christ's People --Imitators of Him
... their hearts were hot with enmity, while their mouths foamed withe revenge and malice;
still he ... How many there are of you like Diotrephes, seeking pre-eminence ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/christs peopleimitators of him.htm

On Reconciling Religious Dissensions among Christians
... John accuses Diotrephes, when he complains that "neither doth he himself receive
the brethren ... through some fault of their own, or through the pure malice of men ...
/.../the works of james arminius vol 1/oration v on reconciling religious.htm

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