Keywords:
3 John, Gaius, Leadership, Diotrephes
Abstract
Who was Gaius, the recipient of 3 John? A few side notes A survey is presented of both internal as well as external arguments used to identify the recipient of 3 John, namely, Gaius. Apart from what can be learned from 3 John itself, little is known about this early christian figure. In the letter itself the author is clear about the loving relationship between him and Gaius as well as Gaius’ behaviour in truth, which makes him a prototype of the ideal Johannine leader. Nevertheless, he cannot be positively identified with any of the early Christians who were also known by the common Roman name of Gaius.
