Author: “The Elder” Although; as was John's custom, he never refers to himself in the letters that bear his name, by his name; it was without question accepted by all the earliest Christians that John was the author of these letters.

The reference “The Elder” (Greek – “ Ho Presbuteros ”), may have many intended reasons assigned its use. He was exceedingly along in years when these letters were written. His style of writing is like a shepherd guarding his sheep. It is very likely that he is the last of the Apostolic fathers alive. At any rate it seems to emphasize his person verses a position.

To: “The elect lady” – the second letter, and “To the beloved Gaius” – the third letter.

2nd Letter: The reference to “The Elect Lady” is internally defined as a body of Christ (as the bride of Christ – Ephesians 5:27), and her children (those who make up the local body of Christ – saints – Philippians 1:1). This is displayed by vs. 4; as he writes to the whole church, he would find some of them walking in truth, but not all! In addition, the church's children (saints) from the location which he is writing this letter are greeting this “lady” (referred to as the “elect sister” – vs.13).

3rd Letter: This letter is written “To the beloved Gaius”. There are three additional Gaius' mentioned in scripture:

Gaius of Macedonia – Acts 19:29; also possibly Secundus of Acts 20:4.

Gaius of Derbe – Acts 20:4.

Gaius of Corinth – Romans 16:23.

There is no way to ascertain if this Gaius is one of these or a different individual. The importance is that he is beloved by John in truth, which describes a faithful individual in service to the Lord.

Purposes: Although the two letters are distinctly different (as written to different sources), they share many characteristics.

1)  They both encourage the strengthening of faith; which is described by “walking in truth” – 2nd John 4 , and “just as you walk in truth” - 3rd John 3.

2)  They both contain encouragement for those under trials. 2nd John 8; 3rd John 11.

3)  They both contain warnings against false teachers and those who would elevate themselves above that which is Christ. 2nd John 7; 3rd John 9-10.

These two books, for obvious reasons have been called the twin sisters and it is obvious that they have the same author and share many characteristics. They were both written very late in the history of the first century and have the same general design in mind.

GOOD READING!