1:11
John urges his readers not imitate evil. The first thing to note is the clear implication that evil is at work in what Diotrephes is doing, again there is no beating about the bush. The second is that we are not to employ the same weapons (see 2 Cor 10:4,5). We are only to imitate good. Jesus said that by their fruit shall you know them (Matt 7:16), and John is making a similar statement here.
1:12
Having named the evildoer, John now names the good brother, Demetrius, and strongly commends him. Everyone who knows him speaks well of him, and his life is in line with the gospel (the truth). It is not just a matter of who has the right opinions, but also a matter of the life a person lives. John then makes it clear that he adds his commendation of Demetrius as well. And Gaius knew John and that he was reliable.
1:13-15
Verse 13 is very similar to verse 12 in 2 John, as is verse 14. John wants to meet up with Gaius face to face. He then closes with a typical blessing and farewell.
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