Reading what John wrote to his friend Gaius in 3John is a delight. He calls Gaius “friend” four times in his letter. He addresses him that way in the salutation and then writes “dear friend” three more times.
He begins with a prayer for his friend, a prayer for good health and a prosperity that encompasses his entire life. Then he goes on to commend Gaius for his hospitality and love. “Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love.” [3 John 5-6]
I think one of the most important parts of friendship is to tell those we love what we appreciate about them. John told Gaius he appreciated his hospitality for their brother Christians, even the ones Gaius did not know personally. These brothers then told the church about Gaius’ love.
We are often eager to comment on the things we think others are doing wrong. We do it sometimes under the guise of “requesting prayers” for a brother or sister going through struggles or temptations. Believe me when I say that people outside the church notice such things. One of the primary “reasons” people give me for not attending a church is that “Christians tear each other down.”
Beloved, Paul reminded us that God’s purpose for us is to build each other up. “Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” [Rom 14:19 NKJV]
Let’s make doubly sure that is what we are doing!
