A Praiseworthy Form Of Hospitality
Introduction
Finding areas of praise for those in the ministry should be on our "things to do" list. At times people may be embarrassed about receiving praise but it doesn't always have to be done publicly. Politely saying in a card or email "thank you for the wonderful job you do" can be a regular way of expressing appreciation. In our text John has found another positive attribute in Gaius' life.
I. The Quality Of Gaius' Deeds Vs. 5
A. It was Sacrificial Vs. 5
Beloved, thou doest faithfully... vs.5. Notice two words in this clause doest faithfully - both of these words indicate a sacrificial effort on the part of the doer. The word doest means to make ready - to prepare - to acquire - to spend time. John had noticed that Gaius spent time preparing a place especially for the needs of the one who'd be staying with him. He took his time, his money, his resources and he aided the people in God's work. He made sure their visit would be one they'd remember - he worked on it. It was not only sacrificial but also it was sufficient.
B. It Was Sufficient Vs. 5
"faithfully" vs. 5
We're not talking about a job carried to completion here or about consistency. The word faithfully here depicts his reliance on God. Notice the word whatsoever; Gaius believed God would be faithful in supplying all of his needs to meet the needs of others. That's why some of us minister so well - some depend on their resources to minister - others depend on God. John drops Gaius a little note here observing that Gaius had worked hard and depended on God to make his fellow brethren comfortable. We not only see the quality of Gaius' deeds but also the quantity of Gaius' deeds.
II. The Quantity Of Gaius' Deeds Vs. 5
A. He Reached Out To Those Who Were Sure Vs. 5
"brethren" vs. 5
No question, Gaius' door was always open to the brethren. Traveling evangelists and teachers were dependent on men like Gaius for shelter and sustenance. John commends Gaius for the hospitality he showed the brethren. Not only do we see he reached out to those who were sure but also he reached out to those who were strangers.
B. He Reached Out To Those Who Were Strangers Vs. 5
"strangers" vs. 5
I know our first thought is "not in this day and time." We must remember Christians in this early stage of Christianity were poor and persecuted. To find someone like Gaius was an answer to their prayers. I wonder how many times he entertained angels unawares. I wonder how many blessings he would have lost if he'd only stuck to his small group of well known friends. It's good for us to know that John didn't imply - nor did Gaius want us to believe that he swung his door open to everyone. II John 1:10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: These strangers were people of good reference, yet totally unknown to Gaius. John praises Gaius for his hospitality toward the brethren. Hospitality is a praiseworthy form of ministry. John was sure to thank Gaius. Are we as thankful to others as we should be? Don't neglect this all important part of ministry!