GAIUS, THE ELDER – “WALKING THE TRUTH”

On our walk on the “Narrow Way” with our LORD, we have, many others also, walking the same narrow path. Many who have walked before us, should be counted as a role model for us, and an inspiration to walk faithfully and obediently, despite all the struggles we may encounter on the way.
– “​1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…” – Hebrews 12:1-2
Notice the words – “…we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses…” They are to encourage and inspire us to continue our walk, despite all our struggles and disappointments. It is to say, as if they are shouting to us, “Do not give up. By the grace of our LORD, we have completed our walk – and so will you.”

One such example, role model or encourager from the innumerable “cloud of witnesses” is Gaius, the Elder. John, the beloved apostle was writing this epistle to Gaius – 3 John. “Clearly this man was a believer in Christ who knew John personally. The letter expresses John’s deep affection for him. Four times Gaius is referred to in terms of endearment: “beloved” in verses 1,2,5, and11; and as, “whom I love” in verse 1.” – Bob Burridge.

Let us read 3 John 1:1-4 to know more about Gaius, the elder.
– “1 The Elder, To the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth: 2 Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” – 3 John 1:1-4

What should concern us, even in 2024 are the words from verses three and four…
– “3 For I rejoiced greatly when brethren came and testified of the truth that is in you, just as you walk in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”
Gaius was walking in the truth, revealed to us, in the LORD Jesus Christ. Gaius’ life was a reflection of His Redeemer. His thoughts, words and deeds, were in alignment and harmony, with the LORD, who had called him out of darkness into His marvellous light – 1 Peter 2:9-10.

The farewell greetings of the apostle John, found in 3 John 1:13-14, speaks volumes about this little know Christian man, his walk, and his testimony, of being the shining light, for His Redeemer and Saviour, the LORD Jesus Christ.
– “13 I had many things to write, but I do not wish to write to you with pen and ink; 14 but I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face. Peace to you. Our friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.”

A few questions for us this morning…beginning with myself. Would someone address us, like how John addressed Gaius? Would we be counted as those walking in the truth? Would someone rejoice over our walk with the LORD, as did the beloved apostle, in regards to Gaius? May the LORD help us to walk in the truth, faithfully and obediently, for Jesus our Redeemer. May our LORD help us to be people, who will spread His light, and live the truth, for our Saviour, no matter what. Even so the LORD help us.