1:9 {2} I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
(2) Ambition and covetousness, two pestilent sins
(especially in those who have any church responsibilities) are condemned in Diotrephes.
1:9 I wrote unto the church. Of which Gaius was a member. The letter referred to is not extant.
But Diotrephes. This man is not elsewhere named. He was evidently an ambitious and unscrupulous church official, who
Receiveth us not, that is, rebelled against the apostle's authority, and who refused to heed the letter. The letter may have been sent by those whom Gaius entertained.
1:9 I wrote to the church - Probably that to which they came. But Diotrephes - Perhaps the pastor of it. Who loveth to have the preeminence among them - To govern all things according to his own will. Receiveth us not - Neither them nor me. So did the mystery of iniquity already work!
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.
