3. Johannes 1:1

I--emphatical. I personally, for my part. On Gaius or Caius, see my Introduction before Second Epistle. love in the truth-- (Jo2 1:1). "Beloved" is repeated often in this Epistle, indicating strong affection (Jo3 1:1-2, Jo3 1:5, Jo3 1:11).

I. The sacred penman writes and sends the letter, referred to as "The elder," meaning by years and office, deserving honor. Some question whether this was John the apostle, but his style and spirit are evident. Gaius could not question who wrote it. John humbly refers to himself as "the elder," aligning with ordinary church pastors. II. The recipient is Gaius, a well-beloved individual, possibly the same Gaius mentioned by Paul in Romans 16:23. John expresses his love for him "in the truth," for walking in truth, which shows true love rooted in the gospel. III. John prays for Gaius, asking for the prosperity of both his soul and body. Soul prosperity is the greatest blessing, often housed in a fragile body, but the desire for both spiritual and physical well-being is evident.

1:1-4 John begins his letter with a conventional greeting, which includes the identification of the author and addressee, a salutation (dear friend), a wish for the recipient’s welfare, and gratitude for some aspect of the friendship. 1:1 This letter is from John, the elder: The translators have added John (see study note on 2 Jn 1:1). • There are several people named Gaius in the New Testament (see Acts 19:29; 20:4; Rom 16:23; 1 Cor 1:14); it was a popular name in the Greco-Roman world.