"Love in Truth”
Gaius was a man commended by John the Apostle for his service to the brethren.
He helped traveling teachers by providing for their needs and practicing hospitality as the Gospel was spread throughout the region.
The Apostle John stated that he loved him in truth (v1). It is of utmost importance that we love in truth, according to truth. True genuine love is reflected in the person and work of Jesus, who is “truth” personified. We read in John’s gospel that Jesus is the truth. We love the brethren because of their connection to Jesus, we love one another in “Truth”. We’re reminded that people will know that we are believers by the love we have for one another. Loving each other is a reflection of God’s truth (Jesus certainly loved in truth). Sometimes it isn’t easy but we’re empowered by God to love in truth. We love His Word, we love His presence and we practice His presence. Let it be both our prayer and aim that others would be able to say, “I love him in truth” about us. We should also desire that it be evident that our love be a reflection of God’s truth. Even if we fall or stray from this that we’d be quick to return to a place where we love in truth. Verses 3-4 are a reminder and encouragement in making an effort to find ourselves in “truth" as well: First: Testify of the Truth, Second: Truth that is in you & Third: Walk in Truth. Firstly, others are benefactors of the truth you and learn and gain. This isn’t just some sort of head knowledge but really the application of that which we’ve learned by being taught by God’s Spirit. We all benefit from the knowledge and application of His Truth. Others see this and “testify” of this truth. Scripture declares: Let your light so shine that they may see your good works and glorify your Father. Secondly, “Truth” is in us as it states in v3: “Truth in you”. Truth is in us by way of Christ! Finally, we share in the Joy as we and those around us “Walk” in truth v4. We share in the Joy of the Lord when we see other believers walking in truth. We occupy ourselves with Jesus, with His word and His Kingdom! It is a true joy to see others loving, living and serving Jesus! Romans 8:16-17 states: "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with [Him], that we may also be glorified together.” We’re in it together. Many members but one body and we rejoice when we see others occupied with the true work of the Lord! Even when these are people that we don’t necessarily know. v5-6 states in the NLT "5 Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases God." We will be overjoyed when we finally arrive in heaven to meet people from every tribe and tongue that were faithful and served Jesus! We can be excited and experience the joy of Christ as we help those laboring locally and abroad for the cause of Christ!
In closing, think on these things as a takeaway:
Jesus is the embodiment of truth!
Let us occupy ourselves with the Gospel and Person of Christ and His cause.
Be hospitable and love the brethren.
Be of good testimony to those around us.
I pray that you may grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus! God bless.