I have many things to write to youThis phrase indicates the Apostle John's deep personal connection and ongoing communication with the recipient, likely Gaius. It reflects the personal nature of early Christian correspondence, where leaders often had much to convey to their fellow believers. The phrase suggests that the letter is part of a larger conversation, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships in the early church. This aligns with other epistles where Paul and other apostles express a desire to share more in person (e.g.,
Romans 15:23-24,
1 Corinthians 16:5-7).
but I would prefer not to do so with pen and ink
John's preference for face-to-face communication highlights the limitations of written correspondence in conveying the full depth of his message and emotions. In the ancient world, personal visits were highly valued for their immediacy and relational depth, as seen in 2John 1:12, where John expresses a similar sentiment. This preference underscores the importance of community and personal interaction in the early church, reflecting the incarnational aspect of the Christian faith, where presence and personal engagement are vital. The use of "pen and ink" also provides a glimpse into the writing materials of the time, which were less convenient than modern methods, further emphasizing the value of direct communication.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
John the ApostleThe author of the letter, traditionally identified as John the Apostle, one of Jesus' original twelve disciples. He is writing to a beloved friend, Gaius, and is known for his deep love and pastoral care for the early church.
2.
GaiusThe recipient of the letter, a faithful member of the early Christian community. He is commended by John for his hospitality and support of traveling missionaries.
3.
The Early ChurchThe context of the letter is the early Christian church, which was growing and facing various challenges, including false teachings and the need for strong community ties.
4.
Traveling MissionariesThese individuals were spreading the Gospel and relied on the hospitality and support of local believers like Gaius.
5.
Pen and InkRepresents the written communication of the time, which John prefers to supplement with personal interaction.
Teaching Points
The Value of Personal InteractionJohn’s preference for face-to-face communication underscores the importance of personal relationships in the Christian community. In an age of digital communication, we should strive to maintain personal connections.
The Limitations of Written CommunicationWhile letters and written messages are valuable, they cannot fully convey the depth of personal interaction. Christians should seek opportunities for in-person fellowship and ministry.
The Role of Hospitality in MinistryGaius’s example of hospitality is a model for believers today. Supporting those who spread the Gospel is a vital part of Christian service.
The Importance of Authentic RelationshipsJohn’s desire to speak directly to Gaius reflects the need for genuine, authentic relationships within the church. Building such relationships strengthens the body of Christ.
Balancing Technology and TraditionWhile modern technology offers new ways to communicate, we should balance these with traditional, personal methods to foster deeper connections.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of 3 John 1:13?
2.Why did John prefer speaking face-to-face over writing in 3 John 1:13?
3.How can we prioritize personal communication in our relationships, like John in 3 John?
4.What does 3 John 1:13 teach about the value of direct fellowship?
5.How does 3 John 1:13 connect with Hebrews 10:25 on gathering together?
6.In what ways can we implement John's approach to communication in our church?
7.Why does 3 John 1:13 emphasize writing over speaking in person?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of 3 John 1:13?
9.How does 3 John 1:13 reflect early Christian communication methods?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 3 John 1?
11.What defines apocalyptic literature?
12.What is the main message of 2 John?
13.What was Jesus' purpose on Earth?
14.Who is the author of 2 John?What Does 3 John 1:13 Mean
I have many things to write to you• John’s heart is full; the Spirit has given him abundant counsel for Gaius and the church.
• His statement echoesJohn 21:25—there is always more to say about Christ than parchment can contain.
• Like Jesus inJohn 16:12, “I still have much to tell you,” John recognizes that God’s truth is rich and layered, meant to be unfolded over time.
• This line affirms the completeness of Scriptural truth while hinting that written words are only one channel God uses to build up believers.
But I would prefer• Preference reveals pastoral tenderness: John’s motive is relationship, not mere information.
•1 Thessalonians 2:8 models the same heart—sharing not only the gospel but “our own lives as well.”
• Personal presence better conveys tone, encouragement, and correction (cf.Philippians 1:8).
• John teaches that ministry choices are guided by love, not convenience or efficiency.
Not to do so with pen and ink• Written words can clarify doctrine, yet face-to-face fellowship completes joy (2John 12).
• Physical presence allows:
– Immediate dialogue (Proverbs 27:17).
– Mutual comfort (Romans 1:11-12).
– A fuller expression of unity (Acts 2:42).
• Even in an age of letters, John discerned the limitations of “pen and ink.” Today’s digital tools carry similar limits; Scripture urges believers toward embodied community.
summary3 John 1:13 shows a shepherd’s overflowing message, his loving preference for personal interaction, and his awareness that true fellowship is richest when believers gather face to face. The verse calls Christians to value direct, relational ministry while honoring written Scripture as fully inspired and authoritative.
(3) (13)
I had many things to write.--Rather,
There were many things which I wished to write.But I will not.--Comp.2John 1:12.
(14)Peace be to thee.--The best wish which the Apostle can form, instead of the usual Greek ending, "Be strong," or "Farewell!" It was our Lord's resurrection greeting; the internal peace of a good conscience, the external peace of universal friendship, the heavenly peace of future glory begun even in this life. (Comp.John 20:19;John 20:26; Rom. 5:33;Galatians 6:16;Ephesians 6:23;2Thessalonians 3:16;1Peter 5:14.) . . .
Vers. 13, 14. - 3. CONCLUSION (see notes on 2 John 12, 13). Here the pen or reed
κάλαμος is mentioned instead of the paper, as a means of writing. The word is found nowhere else in the New Testament in this sense Note the
ἀλλά and the
δέ, each with its right force, the former expressing a strongcr opposition than the latter: "I had many things to write to thee;
nevertheless, I do not care
ἀλλ οὐ θέλω with ink and pen to write to thee:
but I hope
ἐλπίζω δέ straightway to see thee, and we shall speak mouth to mouth." "The friends" are perhaps so called in contrast to the hostility of Diotrephes and his party. Instead of warfare, "peace be to thee;" instead of the wicked prating of enemies, the salutations of friends. The elder concludes with his own personal salutation to all the members of his flock who reside near to Gaius (comp.
John 10:3).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
I haveεἶχον(eichon)Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2192:To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.many thingsΠολλὰ(Polla)Adjective - Accusative Neuter Plural
Strong's 4183:Much, many; often.to writeγράψαι(grapsai)Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 1125:A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.you,σοι(soi)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.butἀλλ’(all’)Conjunction
Strong's 235:But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.I would preferθέλω(thelō)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular
Strong's 2309:To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design.notοὐ(ou)Adverb
Strong's 3756:No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.[to do so]γράφειν(graphein)Verb - Present Infinitive Active
Strong's 1125:A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.withδιὰ(dia)Preposition
Strong's 1223:A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.penκαλάμου(kalamou)Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 2563:A reed; a reed-pen, reed-staff, measuring rod. Or uncertain affinity; a reed; by implication, a pen.andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.ink.μέλανος(melanos)Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 3188:Ink. Neuter of melas as noun; ink.
Links
3 John 1:13 NIV3 John 1:13 NLT3 John 1:13 ESV3 John 1:13 NASB3 John 1:13 KJV
3 John 1:13 BibleApps.com3 John 1:13 Biblia Paralela3 John 1:13 Chinese Bible3 John 1:13 French Bible3 John 1:13 Catholic Bible
NT Letters: 3 John 1:13 I had many things to write (3J iiiJ 3Jn iii jn 3 jo) 
