The Difference is Why

Who will we trust?

This past Sunday, a fellow saint shared insight from another brother regarding discernment between someone lying and someone telling the truth. We can have practical application to distinguish between a slanderer and one simply trying to practice justified defence from the slanderer. It can often facilitate helpful guidance to determine the culprit from the innocent victim. How so? A question is asked,

What is the difference between Diotrephes and Demetrius? (3rd John). If we've only heard about Demetrius from Diotrephes, would we be guilty of drinking muddy water? What if we've been friends with Diotrephes at a distance, trusting his account without actually contacting Demetrius to hear his evidence? Sadly, in our limited experience, some "brotherhood" circles side with Diotrephic spirits because of "preacher school" loyalties. Others, because of preconceived "friendship" with, or perhaps even family associations, skew the ability to see the issue accurately.

It is also true that most of the time, we need not ask the snake's account of his crafty ploy to manipulate Eve; his behaviour is evident to any humble soul. But for the uncertain, gems of Scriptural reasoning help us differentiate accounts that take deeper investigation.

Who will we trust?

- Demetrius extends the opportunity to hear Diotrephes' side of the account; he encourages it (if necessary). He humbly broadens the ability to discern his innocence within the truth itself. He is always more than willing to share honesty, transparency, and the willingness to platform all witnesses. His report receives an accurate testimony from the faithful fold. (vs. 12)

- Diotrephes will not permit Demetrius to be heard; he will go out of his way to ensure he keeps the narrative consistently favourable to his agenda; you have to "take his word for it." He will act as a gatekeeper and only permit you to see and hear what he wants you to see and hear, concealing his malicious division under the guise of "righteousness." (vs. 9-10)

Whichever brother we support will inevitably reveal what indeed dwells within our heart. Don't be caught independently accountable for siding with Diotrephes on the Day of Judgment; "Beloved, do not imitate what is evil but what is good." (vs. 11). Learn to discern; "and this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and ALL discernment." - Paul (Phil. 1:9).

Dear friends, the truth has nothing to hide; it holds transparent evidence from the beginning. Reality will maintain its innocence at all costs.

There is a reason the slanderer and his cabal of corruption remain fed; it is by those who refuse to hear the other side and distinguish its reality. There is also a reason why the faithful continue to grow through the works of Christ: they remain focused on the Gospel and not on Diotrephes.

All the saints greet you, especially those of the EastCoast congregation. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Your servant,
SM