IMITATE THAT WHICH IS GOOD

PROCLAMATION

“Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good.  Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.”  3 John 1:11 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle John, under the inspiration of The Holy Spirit of God, to Gaius, a dear friend of whom he loved in the truth.  In this, his third and final letter, again John begins by identifying himself as an “elder”, his office in the church, not as an “apostle”.  This is probably because the person to whom he is writing knows him and accepts his authority as one who walked with Christ.  After identifying the recipient and wishing him well, (3 John 1:1-2) he expresses his joy in hearing from the believers that he was faithful and walking in the truth. (3 John 1:3-4)  Then he compliments him, encourages him, and tells him how other believers have also complimented him. (1 John 3:5-8)  He then digresses and talks about Diotrephes who is not behaving in a Christ-like manner, spreading rumors, and refusing to welcome believers. (3 John 1:9-10)  Then John tells Gaius not to imitate that which is evil. (3 John 1:11)  )  He ends the letter by saying that he has much more to tell him, but that he would rather tell him when they are face to face. (3 John 1:13-14)

 

APPLICATION

John tells Gaius directly, and all believers indirectly, that believers should do that which is good and not imitate that which is not.  Imitate that which is Godly and Christ-like.   Anyone who does that which is good is a child of God.  We could not do good if God is not within us.  So, let us follow Christ and let us encourage others to do likewise.