“I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.”
3 John 1:9 KJV
John is writing to the church, “I have already written you once about this, but Diotrephes, who loves to be in charge and recognised as first among you, does not acknowledge our authority. Diotrephes was most likely an elder in the congregation who saw himself as the most important one, pushing himself forward with a controlling leadership style. He refused the apostolic authority of John and would not accept guest speakers who may have been sent by John. Leaders must view other leaders not as threats but as coworkers. Love is not controlling or tyrannical. The local church must have God-appointed ministry in the congregation from pastors, prophets, teachers, evangelists and apostles. This, along with itinerant ministers (if proven authentic) to be received by the local church authorities and given both opportunities to minister and generous gifts to send them on their way. Let’s pray for all churches and denominations to function in this biblical way to mature as the ekklesia God has called us to be in Christ! Amen!
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