Salutation

1 The elder to the beloved Gaius whom I love in truth.

The Godliness of Gaius

2 Beloved, I wish for you that in everything you may flourish and be in health just as your soul flourishes.

3 For I greatly rejoiced when the brethren came and gave a report of the truth that is in you, even as you walk in truth.

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

The Generosity of Gaius

5 Beloved, you faithfully do whatever work you do for the brethren and strangers.

6 They testified about your love before the congregation. You will do well to aid them in their journey in a manner worthy of God.

7 For they went out for his name's sake, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.

8 Therefore, we should receive such so that we may be co-workers in the truth.

Diotrephes and Demetrius

9 I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the supremacy over them, won't receive us.

10 For this reason, if I come, I will remember his actions, which he does, blabbering against us with wicked words, and not content with that he himself will not receive the brethren and forbids those who would and throws them out of the congregation.

11 Beloved, don't mimic what is evil but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil is not acquainted with God.

12 Demetrius has a good report from all, even from the truth itself. We also bear witness, and you know that our witness is true.

Benediction

13 I had many things to write, but I will not with pen and ink write to you, but I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face. Peace be with you. [Our] friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.