I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. 3 John 9 KJV
It is hard to get anything accomplished when someone is behaving in a manner that is unbecoming.
No one likes to be around someone who acts in a way that shows they think they are better or more important than everybody else.
They try to run things and behave in a manner that cause more grief than good.
Always trying to have things done their way and when it doesn’t, they cause trouble.
In this third letter that John was writing to the church, we learn about Diotrephes.
He was an individual that wanted to be one of the bosses in the early church.
The problem was his temper and spirit were full of pride.
He was overly ambitious and domineering.
He was eager to put an end to what the Apostle John was trying to do.
To put himself in the position of a dictator over those in his spiritual care.
So much so, that anyone who didn’t like what he was doing was dismissed from the congregation.
It is bad when we don’t do good ourselves.
But even worse when we try to hinder those who would do good.
That is what he was trying to do with the suggestions John was making for the church.
Thankfully, the Apostle did not let that stop him.
Many times, we get frustrated and just give in.
Letting the enemy have his way.
That is why when the Apostle wrote the letter to the church, he told them exactly what was on his mind.
The fact that Diotrephes was not handling things the right way.
That Diotrephes felt only his way would be good.
That is why the Apostle made his suggestions of who would be best suited for the position, indicated that he was still coming and when he arrived, he would discuss the matter further.
He was not going to let Diotrephes keep him from doing what was best for the church.
We are never to forget that both the heart and the mouth must be watched.
The things we say or do can be harmful to accomplishing what the Lord has for us.
We are not to be like Diotrephes and follow in his ways.
We are to be like Jesus and serve with humility and obedience to the Father (Philippians 2:8 KJV).
Wanting nothing but the best outcome for the church and the people to come.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Lord, let us not be proud and selfish like Diotrephes. One who tries to be the boss and take for granted our rank and power. Let us be like You Lord and serve with humility and obedience to the Father. Because when we glorify ourselves, we, and those around us, suffer a loss. A loss that does more harm than good.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen