Commentaries:
Adam Clarke
I wrote unto the Church - The Church where Caius was; but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the pre-eminence, , who loves the presidency, or chief place in the Church. He was doubtless an officer in the Church, at least a deacon, probably a bishop; and, being one, he magnified himself in his office; he loved such eminence, and behaved himself haughtily in it.
Receiveth us not - Does not acknowledge the apostolical authority. As some MSS. supply after , and several judicious critics believe it is implied, the translation will run thus: I would have written to the Church to receive these men kindly, but Diotrephes, who affects the presidency; and into whose hands, if I wrote to the Church, my letter must come, receiveth us not - would not acknowledge my authority to interfere with any of the matters of his Church; and therefore I have written unto thee, whose love to the brethren and general hospitality are well known, that thou wouldst receive those strangers and persecuted followers of our common Lord.
Other Adam Clarke entries containing 3 John 1:9:
1 Corinthians 1:14
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