Based on 3 John, Pastor Kevin explores three distinct leadership styles present within the local church: Gaius “The Encourager,” Diotrephes “The Dictator,” and Demetrius “The Example.” The reality is that no church is perfect because it is composed of imperfect people. True Christian faithfulness is proven by walking in the truth, supporting gospel workers, and choosing godly examples over self-serving leadership.
The Encourager
John begins his letter by writing to Gaius, a man he clearly loves and respects. He calls him beloved and rejoices because Gaius is walking in the truth.
Gaius represents the ideal faithful church member whose private theology matches his public life. He is commended for his active hospitality and unwavering support of traveling gospel workers (3 John 1:1-8).
Pastor Kevin connects this to the work of the church today. When believers pray for missionaries, give toward missions, and support those who are carrying the gospel, they become fellow workers for the truth.
The church needs encouragers like Gaius. These are the people who serve faithfully, support others, pray, give, and work behind the scenes. Their service may not always be seen by everyone, but it matters deeply in the kingdom of God.
The Dictator
Diotrephes, a very different kind of leader. Diotrephes liked to put himself first. He rejected John’s authority, spread wicked words, refused to welcome faithful gospel workers, and even tried to stop others from helping them (3 John 2:9-10).
Pastor Kevin describes Diotrephes as the dictator. He represents the danger of pride in church leadership. Instead of serving the church, he wanted control. Instead of supporting the mission of Christ, he protected his own status.
Pride is dangerous because it shifts the focus away from the gospel and onto personal power. Leadership in the church should never be about control, recognition, or getting one’s own way. Church leadership is about service – not control. If a leader is more concerned with power than the gospel, alarm bells should go off. The church must be careful not to follow the example of those who bully, divide, or seek personal recognition over Christ’s glory.
The Example
To help the church navigate the division caused by Diotrephes, John provides a clear standard for discernment and points to a third man: Demetrius (3 John 1:12).
Demetrius had a good testimony from everyone and from the truth itself. He stood in sharp contrast to Diotrephes. He was known for his character, his faithfulness, and his commitment to what was right.
We must choose carefully who we imitate. Everyone follows someone. The question is whether we are following people who point us toward Christ or people who pull us toward pride, control, and selfishness. A true servant of God leaves a legacy of integrity and truth. Character matters. Faithfulness matters. The way we treat people matters. The way we serve the church matters.
Personal Connection
John closes by saying he had more to write, but he would rather speak face to face (3 John 1:13-14). Pastor Kevin points out that this shows the value of personal connection.
The church is a family of believers who pray together, worship together, study together, serve together, and walk through life together.
No church is perfect because every church is made up of imperfect people. There will be times when people disappoint one another, frustrate one another, or misunderstand one another. But believers are called to extend grace, stay faithful, and keep serving Christ together.
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