III John 1:12

of all men--who have had opportunity of knowing his character. of the truth itself--The Gospel standard of truth bears witness to him that he walks conformably to it, in acts of real love, hospitality to the brethren (in contrast to Diotrephes), &c. Compare Joh 3:21 "He that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest that they are wrought in God." we also--besides the testimony of "all men," and "of the truth itself." ye know--The oldest manuscripts read, "thou knowest."

I. Demetrius, on the other hand, has a good report from all and of the truth itself. John and others also bear witness to his character, and Gaius can trust this testimony. Demetrius was likely well known to both John’s church and Gaius's. II. John closes the letter expressing a desire to see Gaius soon and wishing him peace. He also sends greetings from mutual friends and instructs Gaius to greet their friends by name, indicating a personal connection.

1:12 Demetrius was the very opposite of Diotrephes, a prime example of one who knows the truth and practices it (1:3). The placement of Demetrius’s name at the end of the letter suggests that he was the one who carried John’s letter to Gaius (cp. Col 4:7-9; 1 Pet 5:12). • you know we speak the truth: John wished to protect his honor as a reliable elder over these churches rather than being shamed by any possible usurpation by Diotrephes and other false teachers.