The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

3 John 1:1-8, The elder to the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth.

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

3 For I was very glad when brethren came and bore witness to your truth, that is, how you are walking in truth.

4 I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.

5 Beloved, you are acting faithfully in whatever you accomplish for the brethren, and especially when they are strangers;

6 and they bear witness to your love before the church; and you will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.

7 For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.

8 Therefore we ought to support such men, that we may be fellow workers with the truth.”

What a kind and thoughtful letter the Apostle John addresses to Gaius, who is undoubtedly a leader in the local church. It is understandable that the letter would be first read by him; yet, its contents are intended to encourage the entirety of the church.

Church congregations are always in need of encouragement. John himself was doubtlessly encouraged by being able to send such a message. He reminds the church that people on the outside are always noticing what is transpiring within, whether it is good or bad. So, the congregation must always be true, upright, and faithful.

When it’s all said and done, the church must always exemplify Jesus Christ! Does the aggregate of our daily conduct always reflect His love and concern for others? If it does, then others are seeing and hearing what He earnestly desires. The responsibility of the church depends upon each of us. We are the church; and it will never be more like Christ than we are.

When we walk with His light shining brightly upon us, we can know that the comfort of His presence is always there. Thus, we must always be faithful to Him and to others.

Heartily in Christ,

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America

“We will never know that Christ is all we need,

Until He becomes all that we have.” –Corrie ten Boom