I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us. So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church. 3 John 1:9-10
Have you met Diotrephes? He is a bit of a church scoundrel. Apparently he was opposing the beloved apostle John and spreading rumors about him. His selfish desire and lack of brotherly love were evident to everyone. I wonder why no one took him to task sooner? He was about to get his “comeuppance”. I love that John says, I would write more, but let me handle this one face to face.
Do I handle problems in the church face to face and in a godly way? Am I able to demonstrate the leadership necessary to deal with those like Diotrephes?
God, I praise you that much of church life is sweet and accompanied by the love and joy that is part of a believer’s life. When its necessary, please give me the wisdom and courage to gracefully confront wrong. Help me be above reproach and not self-seeking.
