3 John 1:11

The New King James Version of 3 John 1:11 states: “Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God.”

In the context of Reformed Evangelical Christianity, this verse is a clear call to Christians to model their lives after what is good, which is defined by God’s character and revealed in His Word. It emphasises that our actions reflect our understanding and experience of God. Those who consistently do good demonstrate that they are “of God,” meaning they have a relationship with Him and are influenced by His character. Conversely, those who do evil show a lack of true knowledge or experience of God [16].

Matthew Henry’s commentary on this verse highlights the importance of imitating what is good and not what is evil. He suggests that those who do good demonstrate their relationship with God, while those who do evil show a lack of understanding or experience of God [16].

While I couldn’t find specific resources from Tim Keller or Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones on this verse, their teachings consistently emphasise the importance of living out our faith in practical ways, reflecting God’s character in our actions, and the transformative power of the Gospel in our lives [11] [12].

In terms of application to modern Christian living, this verse serves as a reminder that our actions and attitudes should reflect our faith in God. As Christians, we are called to imitate Christ in doing good, showing love, kindness, mercy, and justice. This is not just about avoiding evil actions, but actively pursuing what is good [16].

Please note that for a deeper understanding of this verse, it would be beneficial to study it in the context of the entire letter of 3 John, and to consult a variety of biblical commentaries and teachings. It’s also important to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in interpreting and applying Scripture [16].

Remember, the goal is not just to understand God’s Word, but to let it shape our lives and make us more like Christ [16].

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 05/06/2024

1. 3 John 1 Commentary – Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible …
2. Gospel of John, Part 1 – Gospel in Life
3. Knowing that We Know God; 1 John, Part 1 – Gospel in Life
4. Free Audio Sermons | Biblical Preaching from Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
5. The Love of God: A sermon on John 3:16 – MLJTrust.org
6. Free Sermon | Book of John | Chapter 3 | Page 1 of 2
7. Listen to Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones Sermons – OnePlace
8. Listen to Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones Sermons – From the MLJ Archive Radio
9. 3 John 1:11 – Diotrephes and Demetrius – Bible Hub
10. Enduring Word Bible Commentary 3 John Chapter 1
11. JOHN 3:11 MEANING – King James Bible Online
12. 3 John 1:11 – King James Bible Online
13. Bible Gateway passage: 3 John – New King James Version
14. Christ, Our Life – Colossians 3:1-14 | Monergism
15. The Great Question: Are You the One? | Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast …
16. Timothy Keller Sermons Podcast by Gospel in Life | Tim Keller
17. 3 John – Matthew Henry’s Commentary – Bible Gateway
18. 3 John 1 Bible Commentary – Matthew Henry (concise) – Christianity
19. 3 John Commentary – Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Complete)
20. 3 John 1 Matthew Henry’s Commentary – Bible Hub
21. en.wikipedia.org