3 John 1:10

If I come. Some see in these words a reference to the hope expressed in 2 John 12, and as support for identifying the second epistle with the letter mentioned in 3 John 9. But it must be noted that the hope expressed in v. 14 of this present epistle is similar to that in the second epistle; so the present reference, “if I come,” may be no more than an anticipation of a future visit.

I will remember. Gr. hupomimnēskō, “to bring to remembrance” (cf. John 14:26). The apostle asserts his leading position; he is confident of his authority, and does not quail before the disrupter.

Prating. Gr. phluareō, “to talk nonsense,” “to bring unjustified charges against.”

Malicious words. Or, “evil words.”

Not content therewith. Diotrephes was not satisfied with wicked words that were intended to undermine apostolic authority; he continued his opposition in unfriendly deeds.

Receive. Gr. epidechomai (see on v. 9). In refusing to offer hospitality to the traveling workers Diotrephes refused to acknowledge John’s authority, for the traveling brethren carried the apostle’s commendation with them.

Forbiddeth. Gr. kōluō, “to hinder,” “to prevent,” “to forbid,” suggesting that Diotrephes took active steps to prevent others from offering the hospitality that he himself refused to give. The form of the Greek verb implies a repeated hindering. The unfriendly act reflects the power possessed by Diotrephes in the local church, but the situation shows that the church was not wholeheartedly with him, for some, at least, were in harmony with the apostle and wished to receive the traveling workers.

Casteth them out. That is, excommunicates them (cf. John 9:34). It is clear that the contention was serious: there was a major clash between the apostolic school and the adherents of the false teachers. In this particular church the heretical party was at least temporarily in the ascendancy, and could impose its will on the body of its members.