Thumb-nail Sketches

John’s Third Epistle provides us with a fascinating group of character-studies.

The writer unconsciously reveals himself, as none of us can help doing. In his case it is a revelation of affection, prayerfulness, joyfulness, generosity of mind, forthrightness and courage. What do we reveal?

In contrast, Diotrephes stands exposed as vain, jealous, unscrupulous, garrulous, wicked, intolerant, ruthless and unspiritual.

Gaius and Demetrius, who sought no place for themselves, are had in everlasting honour; Diotrephes, who sought the place of pre-eminence which belongs to Christ alone, has succeeded only in holding himself up to universal contempt.