True Friendship
Introduction
Sometimes a letter just won't do! Our minds become flooded with thoughts as we write to one another and we realize some things are just better said in person. Notice how John addressed this issue with Gaius.
I. John's Love For Gaius, Vs. 13
A. His Friendship, Vs. 13
"I had..." vs. 13. The phrase I had implies a close friendship. John doesn't say "the church" or "the committee" or "we" - he says "I". One-on-one relationships that develop into true loyalty are hard to find. John and Gaius had this type of relationship, they were true friends! Notice not only his friendship but also his freedom.
B. His Freedom, Vs. 13
"...many things to write..." vs. 13. Do you ever sit down to write a letter and suddenly realize there are some things you wish you could say but better not? That's not so with a true friendship, as a matter of fact, a true friendship leaves the door of trust wide open. True friends know you always have the other person's best interest at heart. True friendship will help you deal with your sin issues, but won't condone them. True friendship will give up to give out! True friendship can say many things without fear. We not only see John's love for Gaius we also see John's loyalty to Gaius.
II. John's Loyalty To Gaius, Vs. 13
A. His loyalty Was Perpetual, Vs. 13
"but I will not with ink and pen..." vs. 13. I get the feeling this wasn't John's first letter to Gaius, however, it is the one God wanted us to have. This letter encourages us to fellowship with Christian brothers and sisters, to avoid false leaders and to have loyal friendships that are in reality, true friendships. Listen! True friendships don't just happen. True friendships are built.
True friendships are nurtured and guarded. I've known cases where the greatest of enemies have become best friends after somebody gave in and got to know the person they thought they hated. Don't say, I just can't be friends with that person, rather be honest and say, I don't want to build a friendship with that person. I know there are some impossible cases and that's not your fault, but I truly believe most people want true friends in their life if only given the chance. On the other hand some people just want friends that will coddle to them and give themselves to them.
John and Gaius' friendship was perpetual. Their friendship was ongoing, it was good when they were together and it was good when they were apart. Not only do we see that John's loyalty was perpetual but also John's loyalty was personal.