3 John 1:9
What does 3 John 1:9 mean?
A plain-English look at 3 John 1:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 3 John 1:9 means
John notes he previously wrote to the church, but Diotrephes—driven by a love of preeminence—refuses to acknowledge or receive John and his associates. This reveals a heart problem: ambition eclipsing submission to apostolic teaching and fellowship. Diotrephes treats the church as his platform, not Christ’s flock. By rejecting John’s input, he cuts the congregation off from faithful oversight and from cooperating with traveling brethren. The verse shows that early churches faced internal power struggles, and that pride still threatens unity and mission. John exposes the root—craving prominence—so that the church can discern and resist leadership that exalts self over truth.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000I wrote somewhat unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
KJV
King James Version · 1611I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901I wrote somewhat unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949I sent a letter to the church, but Diotrephes, whose desire is ever to have the first place among them, will not have us there.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862I did write to the assembly, but he who is loving the first place among them--Diotrephes--doth not receive us;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752I had written perhaps to the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, doth not receive us.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890I wrote something to the assembly; but Diotrephes, who loves to have the first place among them, receives us not.
Context
After urging partnership with gospel workers (v. 8), John introduces a sharp contrast: Diotrephes obstructs that very partnership by rejecting apostolic correspondence and authority (v. 9). This sets up John’s resolve to address the matter personally and to detail Diotrephes’s wrongs (v. 10). The sequence underscores the stakes: cooperation in the truth versus domination that blocks the truth. Readers are prepared to hear both the elder’s firm correction and his model of accountable church leadership.
v.8We therefore ought to welcome such, that we may be fellow-workers for the truth.
v.9This passage
v.10Therefore, if I come, I will bring to remembrance his works which he doeth, prating against us with wicked words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and them that would he forbiddeth and casteth them out of the church.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Mark 9:34
But they held their peace: for they had disputed one with another on the way, who was the greatest.
- Mark 10:35
And there come near unto him James and John, the sons of Zebedee, saying unto him, Teacher, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall ask of thee.
- Titus 1:7
For the bishop must be blameless, as God’s steward; not self-willed, not soon angry, no brawler, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre;
- Luke 9:48
and said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this little child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same is great.
- Mark 9:37
Whosoever shall receive one of such little children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever receiveth me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.
- Philippians 2:3
doing nothing through faction or through vainglory, but in lowliness of mind each counting other better than himself;
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…