Contrast in Character

Will we imitate the character of Diotrephes or Demetrius? The choice is ours.

“I wrote something to the church; but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not accept what we say. For this reason, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words; and not satisfied with this, neither does he himself receive the brethren, and he forbids those who desire to do so, and puts them out of the church” (3 John 9-10 NASB).

Do you know Diotrephes? Have you seen his character? He is everywhere. He is at school, at work, even in the church. He is a child in adult disguise. He demands his way, or no way! He has an inflated view of himself. Nothing, and no one, is more important. He is center stage, or he walks off the stage.

Cross him and he goes on the attack. He will lie and spread idle gossip. Not content with his personal barrage of lies and insults, he will solicit others to join with him. If possible, he will drive you away, kick you out, or get you fired.

Diotrephes is not to be feared or tolerated, he is to be rebuked. Like any other bully, stand up to him and he will turn tail and run.

“Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone, and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true” (3 John 12 NIV).

The character of Demetrius can be found most everywhere, too! He is a selfless person always willing to help. Need a shoulder to cry on? He is there. Feeling blue? He knows just what to say. He has character. He has convictions which he will not compromise. He is admired and respected. He is everything we would like to be, but aren’t.

We should remind ourselves that we are what we choose to be. John admonished: “Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God” (3 John 11 NASB).

What will it be? Will we imitate the character of Diotrephes or Demetrius? The choice is ours. Choose the good character and start by modeling you life after Christ.

Salvation:  Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully