Diotrephes and Demetrius, which are we most like?
3 John 1:9 I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
3 John 1:10 Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.
3 John 1:11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
This was a shepherd with the heart of a devil. We must not be under bondage to such a man.
Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
Mat 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
Mat 7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
Is the shepherd you follow hospitable? Does he love people with a humble heart? Does he preach the truth? This is required of a Pastor.
3 John 1:12 Demetrius hath good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.
Demetrius was a respected man of good report. It is important to be of good report if we are followers of Jesus. Many by their fleshly ways claim to be Christians and bring a bad witness to the name of our Lord.
Rom 14:16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:
Rom 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Wherever the Bible is read these two men shall be spoken of. Are you a loving and caring shepherd or seeking to be the focus, jealous of others and lording it over the flock of God? Demetrius had a good reputation and spoke truth. Let us love one another as Christ loved us living holy separated lives and speaking the truth.
