3 John 1:11 (NASB)

Bible Commentary

3 John 1:11 is a Bible verse in the New Testament where John is reminding us of the importance of becoming Christ-like, so we can emulate what is good, and not evil.

Today, the lines between good and evil are blurred, which is a source of contention between people. It seems both sides hurl insults because they both feel condemned by the other.

Jesus did not come to condemn the world. As a matter of fact, John 3:17 says, “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”

Jesus came to save us from condemnation. The voices of condemnation we hear are from Satan. He is the accuser (Revelation 12:10). So when we condemn and accuse others, whether we are a church-going believer or a non-believer, we are imitating the devil, who is evil.

Oppression (sounds and feelings) come from the devil, not from Jesus Christ. So we must strive to reject the lies of oppression, condemnation and accusation and stand firm in our faith in Jesus Christ, our Saviour, Who is good.

Now in these end times (last days), it is more important than ever to follow Jesus Christ. 3 John 1:11 explicitly says “do not imitate what is evil, but what is good.” Imitate is defined as: to seek to follow the example of; to resemble.

In today’s world, this is becoming increasingly difficult because of all the examples of evil that surround us, which many times we don’t even recognize as evil. The devil is very cunning and a master at deception. The word “evil” is in his name.

Unlocking the Truth – Doing Good

For those who are not immersed in the Bible, it is much more difficult to discern between good and evil. Therefore, for those who do not seek the truth, it is easier to fall victim to the devil’s schemes of deception, where they are held captive to his lies and oppression.

That is why in 3 John 1:11 it says, “The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.” If we are seeking the truth and reading the Bible, we see God, for God is the Word (John 1:1). He is our guiding light in a dark world.

Psalm 119:105 says,

“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.”

The word “seen” in the Greek means: to stare; to discern clearly (physically or mentally), to experience, perceive, take heed.

The best ways to see God are to:

       ·         Read the Bible

       ·         Pray

       ·         Surround yourself with other believers who share your values

       ·         Seek His face (Psalm 27:8)

Jesus did all these things, and so if you imitate Him, you will see God and do good. Study the Bible verse of 3 John 1:11, and imitate Jesus Christ.