1 ¶ The elder to my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth.

2 Beloved, I desire above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.

3 ¶ For I was delighted, when brethren came and bore witness to your devotion to the truth, even as you live according to the truth.

4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

5 Dear friend, whatever you do for the brethren, or for strangers, you do faithfully;

6 They have spoken of your kindness before the congregation: and you will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God:

7 Because they went forth for his name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles.

8 Therefore we ought to assist such men, that we may be joint workers for the truth.

9 ¶ I wrote to the congregation: but Diotrephes, who loves to be preeminent among them, refuses to acknowledge it.

10 Therefore, if I come, I will call attention to the things that he does, spewing out malicious words against us: and not being satisfied with that, he not only refuses to welcome the brethren, but forbids those who would, and throws them out of the church.

11 Beloved, do not follow that which is evil, but that which is good. He who does good is of God: but he who does evil has not seen God.

12 ¶ Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone, and by the truth itself: yea, and we also testify to that and you know that our testimony is true.

13 I have many things to say to you, but I will not do it with pen and ink:

14 But I hope to see you shortly, and we will speak face to face. Peace be unto you. Our friends here send you greetings. Greet each of our friends there by name.