"Just as your soul prospers..."
Text: 3 John 2
CONCERNED ABOUT HEALTH ISSUES
It is natural to be concerned about the health of someone who is dearly loved. The Apostle John had a great sense of affection for Gaius. It was natural that he should be concerned about his health.
1. “And be in health”
a) Medical science was not great in the first century.
b) The health of people was always at risk.
c) Thus this prayer concern about the health of Gaius is to be seen as a natural thing.
2. “Health”
A number of factors are to be born in mind: –
a) Personal knowledge of what it takes to have a healthy life.
b) Availability of medical aid to address health issues.
c) God’s grace and mercy to sustain health.
3. A prayer for health
a) Gaius may have a health issue (but this was not mentioned; only hinted at).
b) John’s concern is most touching.
c) This concern may well serve as a motivation to Gaius to look after his health better.
4. “Just as your soul prospers”
a) John was glad to note that the soul of Gaius was healthy and strong.
b) Of course, John took note of the spiritual life of Gaius.
5. Averting danger
a) Some focus on the health of the soul.
i) At the expense of doing well in work.
ii) At the expense of health.
iii) There should not be an imbalance.
b) The greater and more correct reality.
i) All three aspects are important.
ii) John’s concern highlights the need to have a balance of all three aspects of life.
iii) It is correct theologically to pray for all these aspects of life.