A model of a godly Man

 Read 3 John.

This is short letter to say the least.  The reason for its brevity seems to be that John planned a personal visit (vv.13-15) and soon.  He addressed three men for three very different reasons.

Celebration of Gaius (vv.1-8)

Condemnation of Diotrephes. (vv.9-10)

Commendation of Demetrius. (vv.11-12)

1. How John prayed for his friend.  (vv.1-3)
Gaius was a believer in Jesus, a church leader, and a godly man.  The mark of his personal reputation was that he lived out the truth of God's word.  The men who reported back to John, and prompted this letter, said this about Gaius after being with him for a stay.  In response to his spiritual health, John prayed that his physical well-being would be just as healthy.

2. Why John rejoiced about his friend. (v.4)
Possibly, John introduced Gaius to faith in Jesus and he certainly had taught Gaius.  John referred to him as one of his spiritual children.  Nothing brings greater joy in the Christian life than to see a person transformed by the Gospel.  It is part of the spiritual legacy that all those who are faithful in sharing their faith get to enjoy both here and for eternity.

3. What his friend did that was God-like. (vv.5-8)
Gaius put into practice what he learned from John.  "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son" on the cross that we may know forgiveness of sin and have eternal life (John 3:16).  "If God so love us, we also ought to love one another." (1 John 4:11).  The more a person learns about the Lord the more generous they become.  A godly person is a giver and "worthy of God".

Gaius' generosity became well-known.  He practiced hospitality for travelers who ministered in the name of Jesus, whether he personally knew them or not.  His heart and his hand were open to support the ministry of others.  In doing so, he not only encouraged them in their work, but by his investment in them, he became a ministry partner, a fellow worker.  As their ministry impacted others, Gaius shared in the eternal rewards with them. 

What a model of a spiritually healthy, hospitable, and generous man for all believers to follow!