New Testament
3 John 1:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Dear friend, don't imitate what is evil — imitate what is good. Whoever does good is from God. Whoever does evil has not seen God.
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Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
What 3 John 1:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we are encouraged to choose our role models wisely. The message is clear: don’t follow the path of wrongdoing, but instead, look to those who do good. Goodness is a reflection of God’s character, showing that when we act kindly and justly, we are connected to Him. On the other hand, those who engage in evil actions reveal that they have not truly experienced God’s presence. This is a powerful reminder that our actions speak volumes about our relationship with the divine. It’s not just about knowing what is right; it’s about living it out in our daily lives. By imitating goodness, we not only honor God but also inspire others to do the same. Our choices matter, and they shape who we are and how we relate to the world around us. Let’s strive to be examples of goodness, reflecting the love and light of God in everything we do. This verse challenges us to evaluate our influences and to be a source of positivity in our communities and relationships.
How to apply 3 John 1:11 to your life
To apply this verse, reflect on the people you admire and the behaviors you emulate. Choose to surround yourself with those who inspire goodness and kindness. Make a conscious effort to act in ways that reflect positive values, and encourage others to do the same. Your actions can create a ripple effect of goodness in your community.
Curated for this public verse page. 3 John Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of 3 John
- Author
- John the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 85-95
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Gaius, a church leader
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 3 John 1:11 mean?
3 John 1:11 encourages us to choose good role models and avoid imitating evil behavior. It highlights that those who do good reflect God's character, while those who do evil show they have not truly experienced God.
What is the meaning of 'imitate what is good' in 3 John 1:11?
'Imitate what is good' means to follow the example of those who act kindly and justly. This reflects a connection to God and encourages us to embody positive values in our own lives.
How can I apply 3 John 1:11 in my life?
To apply this verse, evaluate the people you admire and seek to emulate those who demonstrate goodness. Actively choose to engage in positive behaviors and inspire others to do the same.
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