[7] Because that for his
name's sake they went forth, taking nothing of the Gentiles.
They went forth - To preach the gospel.
[8] We therefore ought to receive
such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.
To receive - With all kindness. The truth - Which they
preach.
[9] I wrote unto the church:
but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth
us not.
I wrote to the church - Probably that to which they came.
But Diotrephes - Perhaps the pastor of it. Who loveth to have the preeminence
among them - To govern all things according to his own will. Receiveth
us not - Neither them nor me. So did the mystery of iniquity already work!
[10] Wherefore, if I come, I
will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious
words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren,
and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.
He prateth against us - Both them and me, thereby endeavouring
to excuse himself.
[11] Beloved, follow not that
which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but
he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
Follow not that which is evil - In Diotrephes. But that
which is good - In Demetrius. He hath not seen God - Is a stranger to him.
[12] Demetrius hath good report
of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and
ye know that our record is true. [13] I had many things to write,
but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:
And from the truth itself - That is, what they testify
is the very truth. Yea, we also bear testimony - I and they that are with
me.
[14] But I trust I shall shortly
see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace be to thee. Our friends
salute thee. Greet the friends by name.
Salute the friends by name - That is, in the same manner
as if I had named them one by one. The word friend does not often occur
in the New Testament, being swallowed up in the more endearing one of brother.
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