King James Version

What Does 3 John 1:4 Mean?

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

Context

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. wish: or, pray

For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.

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

Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers;

Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well: after: Gr. worthy of God

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Topics in This Verse

Joy Truth

Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**16. As free--**as "the Lord's freemen," connected with 1Pe 2:15, doing well as being free. "Well-doing" (1Pe 2:15) is the natural fruit of being freemen of Christ, made free by "the truth" from the bondage of sin. Duty is enforced on us to guard against licentiousness, but the way in which it is to be fulfilled, is by love and the holy instincts of Christian liberty. We are given principles, not details. **not using--**Greek, "not as having your liberty for a veil (cloak) of badness, but as the servants of God," and therefore bound to submit to every ordinance of man (1Pe 2:13) which is of God's appointment.

Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 3 John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

3 John 1:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.