3 John 3For I rejoiced greatly when the brothers came and testified to your truth, just as you are walking in the truth. 4I have no greater joy than this, that I may hear that my children are walking in the truth.
This verse gives the proof or support for John’s awareness of Gaius’ spiritual health. Gaius had a strong testimony before others because he followed the truth. When John received word from the brothers, his joy was overflowing. Who the brothers were is unknown, but they brought this exciting news to John because they saw it for themselves. Perhaps they were part of a house church hosted by Gaius or saw a tremendous change in him. The way he was walking in the truth was obvious. Walking is a common word in John’s writings and other places in the New Testament for how a person lives, acts, and behaves. It is the evidence of faith in Jesus and obedience to his commands. It is always a relief to hear that people we have invested ourselves in spiritually in some way are growing and maturing in their faith. Just as a gardener is excited when the seeds begin to grow and eventually produce the vegetables, so teachers or preachers are excited when people understand and apply what they have said.
The key indicator of Gaius’ spiritual growth was how he followed the way of truth, which is repeated three times in these two verses. Verse 4 restates and emphasizes John’s joy upon hearing this good news. The verse also generalizes the type of response John gave to anyone growing in their faith and obedience to Jesus. This verse also implies that Gaius was converted under John’s influence and teaching as one of his children. The joy of seeing someone under one’s ministry grow in commitment is one of the greatest rewards of being a spiritual leader. Gaius was consistent and clear in his lifestyle; it was obvious to the brothers and also to John.