Praying for the beloved

The Elder,

To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth:

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.

(3 John 1-2)

The Elder

1. This is the title of honor
2. This title is used by John the Apostle to refer to himself
3. This title John wears speaks of
   1. His authority
   2. The honor he has been given
   3. His old age

To the beloved Gaius…

1. John the Apostle writes this personal letter to a man named Gaius, just as he did to the elect lady as in 2 John
2. John writes this letter with affection, for Gaius is
   1. The beloved one
   2. The one whom he (John) loves in truth
3. Love must be exercised within the bound of truth

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health

1. John earnestly prays for his beloved Gaius
2. John affectionately prays that Gaius
   1. may prosper in all things
   2. may be in health
3. Let us pray for one another that
   1. We may be prosperous (Psalm 1:3, 35:27)
   2. We may be healthy and strong (physical health)

Just as your soul prospers

1. John the Apostle is fully aware that Gaius is spiritually prosperous (healthy)
2. He is also concerned about the physical health issue of Gaius
3. He prays for the wellbeing of Gaius’ physical health, just as his (Gaius’) spiritual health

Reflections

1. John the Apostle was fascinated with the teaching of the Lord Jesus on love (John 13:34-35)
2. He put the teaching of the Lord Jesus on love into practice
3. His faith and grasp of truth necessitates him to write and pray
4. His love for God’s people like Elect lady and Gaius moves him to write and pray with affection