[1] From the Elder. To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth: [2] My dear friend, I know your soul is doing fine, and I pray that you are doing well in every way and that your health is good. [3] I was very happy when some brothers and sisters came and told me about the truth in your life and how you are following the way of truth. [4] Nothing gives me greater joy than to hear that my children are following the way of truth. [5] My dear friend, it is good that you help the brothers and sisters, even those you do not know. [6] They told the church about your love. Please help them to continue their trip in a way worthy of God. [7] They started out in service to Christ, and they have been accepting nothing from nonbelievers. [8] So we should help such people; when we do, we share in their work for the truth. [9] I wrote something to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be their leader, will not listen to us. [10] So if I come, I will talk about what Diotrephes is doing, about how he lies and says evil things about us. But more than that, he refuses to accept the other brothers and sisters; he even stops those who do want to accept them and puts them out of the church. [11] My dear friend, do not follow what is bad; follow what is good. The one who does good belongs to God. But the one who does evil has never known God. [12] Everyone says good things about Demetrius, and the truth agrees with what they say. We also speak well of him, and you know what we say is true. [13] I have many things I want to write you, but I do not want to use pen and ink. [14] I hope to see you soon and talk face to face. [15] Peace to you. The friends here greet you. Please greet each friend there by name.
