3 John 1:6

Analysis & Commentary

Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well. The traveling brethren "have borne witness" (ἐμαρτύρησαν, emarturēsan) of Gaius's love—they publicly testified to his Christian character. The noun "charity" (ἀγάπη, agapē) is divine love characterizing genuine Christianity, not mere affection but self-giving commitment to others' good. This testimony occurred "before the church" (ἐνώπιον ἐκκλησίας, enōpion ekklēsias), suggesting these workers reported to John's congregation about Gaius's exemplary hospitality.

John then encourages continued support: "whom if thou bring forward on their journey" (οὓς καλῶς ποιήσεις προπέμψας, hous kalōs poiēseis propempsas). The verb προπέμπω (propempō) means to send forward, escort, or equip for a journey—providing supplies, financial support, and assistance for ongoing ministry. This wasn't merely offering a meal and bed, but actively supporting their mission by funding travel, providing provisions, and facilitating their work. Paul uses this same term in Romans 15:24 and 1 Corinthians 16:6 regarding support for his missionary travels.

"After a godly sort" (ἀξίως τοῦ θεοῦ, axiōs tou theou) literally means "worthily of God"—in a manner befitting God's character and honoring His name. Christian generosity should reflect God's own generous nature and represent the gospel worthily. "Thou shalt do well" (καλῶς ποιήσεις, kalōs poiēseis) indicates such support is not merely good but noble, excellent, and commendable. John affirms that Gaius's continued generous support for traveling ministers serves God's purposes and merits highest commendation.

Historical Context

The early church's missionary expansion depended entirely on financial support from local believers. Unlike pagan philosophers who charged fees or wealthy patrons who funded favored teachers, Christian missionaries went forth "taking nothing of the Gentiles" (verse 7). They depended on believers' generosity, making supporters like Gaius essential partners in gospel advance. Without such faithful giving, the church's mission would have collapsed.

The concept of "bringing forward" travelers reflects ancient Near Eastern hospitality customs where hosts not only received guests but equipped them for onward journey. Abraham's hospitality to the three visitors (Genesis 18) and Rebekah's service to Abraham's servant (Genesis 24) exemplify this pattern. In Roman culture, wealthy patrons often sponsored clients or proteges, providing financial backing and social connections. Christians adapted this cultural practice to serve kingdom purposes, with believers supporting ministers they might never meet again, trusting God to multiply the gospel's impact.

Public testimony "before the church" served multiple functions: encouraging other believers to similar generosity, validating the traveling ministers' legitimacy (important when false teachers also traveled), strengthening networks of mutual support across churches, and bringing honor to those whose faithfulness deserved recognition. This accountability and encouragement system helped maintain both doctrinal purity and practical support for genuine gospel workers.

Questions for Reflection

• Are you financially supporting gospel work beyond your local church in ways that reflect God's generous character?
• How can you 'bring forward' ministers and missionaries through prayer, encouragement, and practical assistance?
• Do you exercise appropriate discernment in determining which ministries warrant your support?