3 It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it.

Other Translations of 3 John 1:3

King James Version

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

English Standard Version

3 For I rejoiced greatly when the brothersOr brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated "brothers") refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God's family, the church; also verses 5, 10 came and testified to your truth, as indeed you are walking in the truth.

The Message

3 I was most happy when some friends arrived and brought the news that you persist in following the way of Truth.

New King James Version

3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth.

New Living Translation

3 Some of the traveling teachers recently returned and made me very happy by telling me about your faithfulness and that you are living according to the truth.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 3 John 1:3

Commentary on 3 John 1:1-8

(Read 3 John 1:1-8)

Those who are beloved of Christ, will love the brethren for his sake. Soul prosperity is the greatest blessing on this side heaven. Grace and health are rich companions. Grace will employ health. A rich soul may be lodged in a weak body; and grace must then be exercised in submitting to such a dispensation. But we may wish and pray that those who have prosperous souls, may have healthful bodies; that their grace may shine where there is still more room for activity. How many professors there are, about whom the apostle's words must be reversed, and we must earnestly wish and pray that their souls might prosper, as their health and circumstances do! True faith will work by love. A good report is due from those who receive good; they could not but testify to the church, what they found and felt. Good men will rejoice in the soul prosperity of others; and they are glad to hear of the grace and goodness of others. And as it is a joy to good parents, it will be a joy to good ministers, to see their people adorn their profession. Gaius overlooked petty differences among serious Christians, and freely helped all who bore the image, and did the work of Christ. He was upright in what he did, as a faithful servant. Faithful souls can hear their own praises without being puffed up; the commendation of what is good in them, lays them at the foot of the cross of Christ. Christians should consider not only what they must do, but what they may do; and should do even the common actions of life, and of good-will, after a godly sort, serving God therein, and designing his glory. Those who freely make known Christ's gospel, should be helped by others to whom God gives the means. Those who cannot themselves proclaim it, may yet receive, help, and countenance those who do so.