3 John 1:10
“Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doeth, prating against us with malicious words: and not content therewith, neither doth he himself receive the brethren, and forbiddeth them that would, and casteth them out of the church.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →John says he will confront Diotrephes, who slanders him, refuses the traveling believers, and even expels from the church those who would welcome them.
What Does 3 John 1:10 Mean?
John lays out the full extent of Diotrephes's conduct. The man spreads "malicious words" against John, refuses to receive the visiting believers, hinders those who wish to help, and casts such people out of the church. His pride has hardened into open opposition that wounds others.
John promises that, should he come, he will not ignore these deeds. This is not personal revenge but the loving duty of a shepherd to protect the flock from harm. Sin that goes unchecked spreads and devours. There is a place for patient gentleness and also a place for plain confrontation when the weak are being trampled. John shows that genuine love for a community sometimes requires naming wrong and standing against it.