Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 31, 2022
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 3 John. The Apostle John wrote this letter to a faithful church member named Gaius. This man’s love and hospitality became an example for everyone to follow. However, John mentions another man whose example was not worth following. These two examples helped the early church understand the virtue of discernment. Some men are worth following, but others are not. We need discernment to know who is walking with genuine faith, and we need discernment for healthy, Biblical correction.
Watch
Listen
Reflect
Do you find yourself struggling with the ability to discern right from wrong? What issues or in what areas of your life are you experiencing this struggle?
Where are you seeking the answers? Are you spending time in God’s word each day to discern the truth?
In 3 John we see a man named Gaius who walked in the truth, filled others with joy and showed hospitality to others. What do you think others see when they look at your life?
John shows us the contrast between Gaius’ life and Diotrephes’ life. Diotrephes put himself first, spread rumors, wicked talk, was not hospitable, was condemning and manipulative. Do you find yourself struggling with any of these issues? If so, repent and ask God to guide your footsteps toward humility.
We must imitate God and not evil. We must not listen to, follow or imitate those who claim to follow Christ and do not reflect His character. Who are you listening to? Do you believe what others tell you or do you check it against God’s word?
Discernment shows us the difference between right and wrong and how to respond. There may be times when we are called to have tough conversations with another believer, and other times we are called to not speak. These conversations are best done privately. Pray and ask the Lord if there is someone He desires for you to talk with or if He is asking you to simply pray about the situation.