Diotrephes
“Nourished by Zeus”
Summary
A church leader condemned by the apostle John for his love of preeminence, rejection of apostolic authority, and exclusion of faithful believers from the church.
☩His Character and Conduct
John describes Diotrephes as one 'who loveth to have the preeminence among them.' He refused to receive a letter from the apostle, thereby rejecting John's authority and directions. Not content with opposing John personally, Diotrephes circulated malicious slanders against the apostle and exercised tyrannical influence over the congregation. His ambition and hostility mark him as an early example of the danger of self-seeking church leadership.
☩His Treatment of Believers
Beyond refusing to receive John's messengers, Diotrephes 'casteth them out of the church' who wished to show them hospitality. He thus used his position to excommunicate faithful believers who disagreed with his autocratic rule. John promises to address these matters when he comes, using language that implies his unquestionable apostolic power to restrain such behavior.
☩Historical Context
Various theories attempt to explain Diotrephes's opposition: perhaps he led an ultra-Pauline party resisting Jewish influences, or perhaps as a local bishop he resented apostolic interference in his affairs. Whatever his motivation, his love of preeminence and refusal to acknowledge apostolic authority made him a warning example. The name itself, meaning 'Jove-nourished,' suggests pagan parentage before conversion.
Related Verses1 mention
3 John· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Diotrephes," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.George Morrish, "Diotrephes," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).
- 3.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Diotrephes," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).