Identifying A Brother

Introduction

As we think about who our brothers and sisters are in Christ we're left to admit that lifestyle is truly our only gauge. As Zig Ziggler illustrates in his clapping example, "1-2-3 go-clap. People see much more of you than they hear. Gaius, here in the book of III John is called beloved four times. Notice with me:

I. The Writer's Position, Verse 1

A. His Position Vs. 1

The elder 1. John identifies himself as the elder. He's not claiming a title of office here - it's the Greek word "pres-boo-ter-os" - it means old or older. Hence we have the phrase "the elder" as an adjective, not a noun or "an elder." This old man of God had taken up writing letters to people that labored in the ministry. So often people with little strength or knowledge could strengthen someone else just by writing a card or personal letter to a co-laborer in the ministry. Not only do we see his position in the church, but also: His practice in the church.

B. His Practice Vs. 1

"unto the well beloved Gaius"

Immediately one can recognize his gift - John is an exhorter. It's evident that Gaius is loved but even when we know it - it feels good to be told. It would be exhausting to try to interpret the number of times God tells us in His word that He loves us. Notice II John 1:4, "I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father." And I John 1:4, "And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full."

This man evidently gets his kicks by telling people they're loved. John made it his practice to tell people they were loved of God and by him. Notice his words in John 13:35, "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."

Notice not only the writer's position, but also the writer's praise.

II. The Writer's Praise Vs. 1

A. The Reality Of His Love, Vs. 1

"whom I love" vs. 1.

Notice the word "whom" - it depicts a special, particular person.

John wasn't afraid of telling Gaius he was loved. Notice the word love - it's the Greek word agapaho' - it means I know you and I still love you because Christ loved me. It's a present active indicative. That means it is a fact happening right in John's heart - the indicative implies past - present - and future.  In other words if it has - if it is - if it will happen - it is rendered in the indicative mood. John says for a fact, "I've loved you - I am loving you - and I will love you." Why is that important? Because it illustrates the love God has for me. Not only do we see the reality of his love, but also:

B.The Reason For His Love Vs. 1

"in the truth" vs. 1.

Gaius was a man of true character.

John says, "He's not a back stabber - he doesn't talk out of both sides of his mouth - his stand is solid - he's steady - he's always the same."

It was said of Stonewall Jackson, "He was what you saw." That's the way every Christian ought to want to be remembered! A true Christian - John is actually saying it was easy to love Gaius - he was a friend indeed!