1:10 Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth. It may be necessary for him to come. If he does, he will arraign Diotrephes for his deeds.
Prating against us with malicious words. Excusing himself by maligning John.
Neither doth he himself receive the brethren. The messengers John sent.
And forbiddeth them that would. Seeks to prevent any of the church from hearing or extending hospitality to these messengers.
And casting [them] out of the church. Seeks to have them denied Christian fellowship.
1:10 He prateth against us - Both them and me, thereby endeavouring to excuse himself.
1:9-12 Both the heart and mouth must be watched. The temper and spirit of Diotrephes was full of pride and ambition. It is bad not to do good ourselves; but it is worse to hinder those who would do good. Those cautions and counsels are most likely to be accepted, which are seasoned with love. Follow that which is good, for he that doeth good, as delighting therein, is born of God. Evil-workers vainly pretend or boast acquaintance with God. Let us not follow that which is proud, selfish, and of bad design, though the example may be given by persons of rank and power; but let us be followers of God, and walk in love, after the example of our Lord.
