Definition: The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse! It’s a really beautiful and important one from the book of 1 John. Here's what it means in simpler terms: “The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.” Let’s unpack that sentence piece by piece: “The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius…” – This refers to a particular person named Gaius. "Elder" means a trusted leader or guide. “Wellbeloved” is a term of affection, meaning someone who is deeply loved and cherished. So, this is a very special, close relationship with Gaius. “…whom I love in the truth.” – This is the key part! “I love” means that you have a deep and genuine affection for Gaius. But it's not just any kind of love; it’s a love based on something solid and reliable - the truth . “In the truth” means you value honesty, integrity, and what is genuinely real. So, putting it all together: This verse is saying that you love Gaius very much because you trust him completely and believe in his honesty and integrity. It's a deep, unwavering affection rooted in knowing he’s truthful and genuine. What does this verse teach us? It emphasizes the importance of: Trusting others: You should rely on someone you know to be honest and truthful with you. Honesty and Integrity: It encourages us to value honesty in our relationships and in our lives. A close relationship: This verse suggests that a strong, loving relationship is built on a foundation of trust and understanding. In short, it's a heartfelt expression of love and confidence in someone’s character. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the meaning of this verse further?

Definition: Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth [them] out of the church.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse together. It’s a pretty serious warning from the Apostle John. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Core Message: This verse is saying that someone is intentionally trying to harm believers – spreading lies and negativity – and they’re actively trying to stop them from sharing their faith. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Wherefore, if I come…” : John is speaking to someone who is engaging in this harmful behavior. He’s essentially saying, "I'm watching you." “…I will remember his deeds which he doeth…” : This is the key part. John is focusing on what he observes – what the person is doing. It means they are deliberately and consistently spreading lies, gossip, and negativity. He’s remembering their actions. “prating against us with malicious words” : “Prate” means to talk falsely or deceitfully. This suggests they're not just saying things; they're lying and trying to damage people's trust in each other. They’re intentionally causing harm through lies. “and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren…” : This highlights a key point of malice. They aren't satisfied with just spreading these lies; they actively stop believers from sharing their faith and even throw them out of the church. It shows a deliberate effort to isolate and harm those who are trying to connect with God through faith. “…and forbiddeth them that would, and cast [them] out of the church.” : This is a strong command. John is telling us to be vigilant and to not engage in this behavior yourself – or anyone else who might be participating. He’s essentially saying, "Don't do this! Don't spread lies and negativity!" And he’s taking decisive action by removing those who are engaging in it from the church community. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse is a warning about spiritual warfare – a battle between good and evil. It warns us to be cautious of those who actively try to undermine faith, sow discord, and prevent believers from connecting with God. It’s a call to stand firm in our faith and protect the community of believers. Think of it like this: The person is deliberately trying to poison the well of faith – spreading lies and trying to isolate people. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Provide a related story or example from the Bible?

Definition: Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together! It’s a really important one focusing on our relationship with each other and with God. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that doing good is the key to being connected to God. It’s about choosing to be kind, helpful, and righteous – and that leads you closer to God. Let’s unpack it word by word: “3 John 1:11” : This is the title of a specific letter written by an apostle named John in the book of 3 John. It's a message from him. “Beloved” : This addresses someone who’s close to God – someone who’s already part of His family. “Follow not that which is evil…” : This means don’t do things that are bad, harmful, or wrong. It's about resisting temptation and choices that lead us down a path of negativity. “…but that which is good” : This is the opposite – choosing to do good! It’s about being kind, compassionate, helpful, honest, and righteous. “He that doeth good is of God…” : This is where it gets really powerful. "He who does good" refers to people who are living a life pleasing to God. It's saying that those who genuinely try to do what’s right are inherently connected to God’s will. “…but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.” : This is the shocking part! If someone is doing bad things, they haven't truly seen or experienced God because their actions aren't aligned with His nature and purpose. It suggests a disconnect – a lack of connection to something greater than themselves. In short: This verse encourages us to live a life of goodness and kindness – it’s the best way to show love and respect to God, and it points to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with Him. Why is this important? It's a reminder that our actions have significance because we are connected to something larger than ourselves – God. It calls us to be better people, not just for our own benefit, but because it’s the right thing to do. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of "good" and "evil"? Talk about how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: Demetrius hath good report of all [men], and of the truth itself: yea, and we [also] bear record; and ye know that our record is true.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage together. It’s a really beautiful and important verse from the book of 3 John! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: This verse is saying that God has a very good impression of everyone – everyone – and he believes in the truth itself. It’s a message of encouragement and assurance. Let’s break it down word by word: “3 John 1:12” : This is the name of the author of the letter, which is a specific angel named John. “Demetrius hath good report of all [men]” : "Demetrius" means "the good one" or "the wise one." So this part says that Demetrius (a wise and discerning angel) has a positive view of all people. It’s not just about specific individuals, but everyone in general. “and of the truth itself” : This is the key part. It means that Demetrius sees the fundamental reality – the core truth – of people. He doesn't just see appearances or superficial things; he sees the underlying goodness and honesty. “yea, and we [also] bear record;” : “Yea” here emphasizes agreement and affirmation. So, "we" are agreeing with this good report. The phrase “bear record” means to tell a story or to communicate something important. “and ye know that our record is true.” : This part is crucial – it’s saying that this record – the message of Demetrius – is accurate and reliable. It's not just that we think it’s true, but we have evidence to back it up. Putting it all together: This verse is essentially a declaration from God that he has a positive view of everyone and that his message (the record) is genuine and trustworthy. It’s a reassurance that God sees the good in people and that His word will ultimately prevail. Why is this important? God's Perspective: It reminds us that God values truth and goodness above all else. Trusting the Message: It encourages us to trust the message of Scripture, even when it’s difficult or challenging. It says that even if we don’t always see the good in someone, God sees it nonetheless. In a nutshell, this verse is a powerful statement about God's love and his unwavering commitment to truth. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points further? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to real-life situations?

Definition: I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this short verse from 3 John 1:13. It’s a really beautiful and important message about the importance of genuine faith and living a life that reflects God’s character. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: The writer is saying, “I have a lot to say, but I'm not going to write you a long letter with words and pens because I don’t believe I truly know you.” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “I had many things to write…” - This suggests the writer has been observing and reflecting on people, and perhaps they have some thoughts or observations. “…but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:” – This is the key part. The writer isn’t going to actively communicate with you through letters. They're choosing not to do so. What does this mean about our relationship with others? It’s a powerful reminder that: Faith is more important than words: Genuine faith – the belief in God and following His will – is far more valuable than any letter we might write. We need to look deeper: The writer isn't just saying "don't write me letters." They’re suggesting a deeper, more thoughtful connection with people. It means being honest with yourself about your beliefs and actions. Trusting God’s guidance: It highlights the idea that God knows our hearts better than we do ourselves. He guides us to be faithful and true in our words and deeds. In essence, the verse encourages a quiet, thoughtful approach to communication – focusing on genuine belief and living a life that reflects God's character rather than just saying what you think. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss a specific theme related to this verse (like forgiveness or truth)?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 3 John 1:14 together. It's a really lovely and comforting message about God’s love and connection with us. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God will eventually come to meet you personally, and He wants to address you by your name. It’s a promise of a personal encounter and a feeling of being cherished. Let's unpack it word-by-word: “But I trust I shall shortly see thee” : This is the core of the message. “See thee” means recognize me . God’s intention is to know you, to recognize your worth and your existence. It’s a feeling of being noticed and valued. “and we shall speak face to face” : This suggests a direct, intimate conversation. It’s not just a passing glance or a casual hello; it's a genuine, personal dialogue. Think of it like a close, meaningful discussion. “Peace [be] to thee.” : This is a blessing – a gift of peace and tranquility. It signifies that God wants you to feel safe, secure, and at ease in His presence. “[Our] friends salute thee” : “Friends” refers to people who are connected to you, likely those you know or have a relationship with. "Salute thee" means they offer greetings – acknowledging your existence and showing respect. “Greet the friends by name.” : This is a very significant detail! It's saying that God wants to address each person individually with their specific name, showing that He values each of you uniquely. Overall Meaning & Feeling: The verse evokes a feeling of: Divine Love and Presence: It’s a reminder that God loves you deeply and is actively involved in your life. Personal Connection: It emphasizes that your relationship with God isn't just about rules or doctrines, but about a genuine, personal connection. Warmth and Comfort: The phrase “peace” suggests a feeling of safety and reassurance. In essence, this verse is a declaration of God’s intention to be close to you and to offer you a sense of comfort and affirmation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Relate this verse to a specific story or example from the Bible?