3 John 1:13-14
Face to Face
Read the passage
13I have many things to write to you, but I would prefer not to do so with pen and ink.
14Instead, I hope to see you soon and speak with you face to face. Peace to you. The friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends there by name.
Berean Standard Bible
Read aloud
The elder has more to say to Gaius, but he would prefer to speak in person. He hopes to see him soon. The letter has carried both encouragement and a difficult warning; their friendship has more room for conversation than these written words alone.
He wishes Gaius peace. That blessing comes after the trouble caused by Diotrephes, so it does not mean the conflict has disappeared. The elder can desire peace for his friend while still intending to confront wrongdoing if he comes.
Friends with the elder send greetings, and Gaius is asked to greet the friends there individually, by name. The letter ends with people remembering other people. Its concern for truth includes the affection of believers who know one another.
We are not told when the visit takes place or what else will be discussed. We do hear a wish for peace, a hope for conversation and a request to pass on personal greetings. Those ordinary expressions of care belong alongside the letter’s call to support truth and imitate good.
Questions
1 How does the elder prefer to share what remains?
AnswerHe would prefer to see Gaius soon and speak face to face rather than write everything with pen and ink.
2 What does he wish for Gaius?
AnswerHe wishes him peace, even though the letter has described conflict that needs to be addressed truthfully.
3 Who sends greetings to Gaius?
AnswerThe friends with the elder send greetings. Their message reminds Gaius of the fellowship he shares with people elsewhere.
4 How should Gaius greet the friends there?
AnswerHe is to greet each friend by name, conveying personal care rather than treating the believers as an anonymous group.
What This Means for Us
Remember someone in your church who may be overlooked when greetings stay general. Use their name, ask how they are and listen to the answer.
Pass on an encouraging greeting from a mutual friend when you have one to share. Small acts of remembrance can strengthen fellowship across distance.
Prayer
God of peace, help us remember the people You have placed in our fellowship. Give us time to listen and words that show personal care. Sustain friendships across distance and teach us to seek peace without avoiding truth. Amen.