1 The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 2 Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. (3 John 1:1-2 KJV)
Greetings to Gaius
Here we see the sacred penman who writes and sends the letter, not named here, but described generally as “the elder”—one who is such by age and office. Honor and respect are due to both. Some have questioned whether this was John the apostle, but his style and spirit seem evident in the epistle. Those who are loved by Christ will love the brethren for his sake.
Gaius would not have doubted from whom the letter came. The apostle could have chosen more impressive titles, but it does not suit Christ’s ministers to seek grand, pompous titles. He humbles himself to the level of ordinary pastors by calling himself “the elder.” Possibly, most of the apostles had already died, and this faithful survivor wanted to support the continuing regular ministry by adopting the more common title—“the elder” (1 Peter 5:1).
The person honored by the letter is a choice gentleman, worthy of esteem. He is identified by his name—Gaius. Several people by that name are mentioned in Scripture, including one whom Paul baptized at Corinth and who may also have hosted and cared for Paul (Romans 16:23). If this Gaius is not the same person, he shares his name, character, and generosity.
He is further recognized by the apostle’s kind expressions: “The well-beloved, whom I love in the truth.” Love expressed tends to spark love in return. This may refer either to the sincerity of the apostle’s love or to its spiritual nature: “Whom I love in the truth”—that is, for the truth’s sake, as one who lives and walks in the truth as it is in Jesus. To love others for the truth’s sake is genuine, gospel love.
The greeting contains a prayer, introduced with an affectionate address: “Beloved, you who are loved in Christ.” Ministers who want to be loved must show love themselves.
The apostle expresses his good opinion of Gaius—that his soul prospered. Soul prosperity is a real and great blessing in this life. It assumes regeneration and the presence of spiritual life. This inner wealth grows, and as spiritual riches increase, the soul is well on its way to the kingdom of glory.
He also expresses a good wish—that Gaius’s body may prosper and be in good health, just as his soul prospers. Grace and health are valuable companions; grace enhances health, and health enables the use of grace. Often a spiritually rich soul resides in a weak body; in such cases, grace is shown in submission to God’s will. Still, it is good to wish and pray that those with prosperous souls may also have healthy bodies. Their grace will then have a wider field in which to operate.