3 John 1:13
What does 3 John 1:13 mean?
A plain-English look at 3 John 1:13 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 3 John 1:13 means
John indicates that he has much more to say but prefers not to “write with ink and pen,” signaling that some matters are better handled in person. Face-to-face conversation allows nuance, warmth, and wise pastoral care in ways a brief letter cannot capture. It also shows John’s confidence that personal presence can resolve tensions and strengthen Gaius amid opposition. The line teaches prudence in communication: some issues require direct fellowship rather than extended correspondence. It affirms the value of embodied relationships in the church; truth is not only conveyed in words, but also in shared presence, expression, and careful dialogue.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000I had many things to write unto thee, but I am unwilling to write them to thee with ink and pen:
KJV
King James Version · 1611I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901I had many things to write unto thee, but I am unwilling to write them to thee with ink and pen:
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949I had much to say to you, but it is not my purpose to put it all down with ink and pen:
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Many things I had to write, but I do not wish through ink and pen to write to thee,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752I had many things to write unto thee: but I would not by ink and pen write to thee.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890I had many things to write to thee, but I will not with ink and pen write to thee;
Context
After establishing a trustworthy example in Demetrius (v. 12), John draws the letter toward conclusion, noting the limits of written communication (v. 13). This sets up his expressed hope for an imminent visit and conversation (v. 14). The move from instruction to planned personal presence mirrors the letter’s theme: truth works out in relationships and hospitality. The closing section will add a blessing of peace and greetings, reinforcing unity and affection in the wider Christian network.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 John 1:12
Having many things to write unto you, I would not write them with paper and ink: but I hope to come unto you, and to speak face to face, that your joy may be made full.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore 3 John 1
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on 3 John 1.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Children
God’s Word provides profound insights into the rearing, value, and blessing of children, as well as the responsibilities of both parents and children.
Topic
Bible Verses About Hospitality
Hospitality, a sacred duty and a joyful expression of love, invites us to open our homes and hearts to others, serving as a powerful witness to God’s gracious character.
What the Bible says about…