13 I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee: 14 But I trust I shall shortly see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends salute thee. Greet the friends by name. (3 John 1:13-14 KJV)
Farewell Greeting
The letter ends with Apostle John saying, “I have many things to write to you, but I do not want to do so with pen and ink. I hope to see you soon” (3 John 1:13-14). Some things are better discussed face-to-face. A little personal conversation can save the time and effort of writing many letters, and good Christians are glad to see one another.
“Peace be to you” (3 John 1:14)—may all well-being be yours. Those who are good and content themselves wish the same for others.
“Our friends greet you.” A friend to the spread of the gospel deserves public acknowledgment, and these believers show their friendship to both Gaius and the cause of Christ.
“Greet the friends by name.” (3 John 1:14). They were probably not very many, but even the least in Christ’s church should be personally greeted. Those who hope to live together in heaven should warmly greet one another on earth. The apostle who had leaned on Christ’s chest holds Christ’s friends close in his heart.