3 John 1:2-4

At the beginning of Greco-Roman letters, after the greeting the writer established his or her relationship with the readers. Most of the time this had a wish for the good health of the readers, as well as compliments about the readers’ character or behavior. Writers would also include a prayer that everything would go well for the reader, both materially and spiritually. This greeting is similar to saying “I hope you are well” today. John is praying that all is well with Gaius (see note on 1 Thess. 3:11).

Healthy...it is well

John did not promise Gaius that he would have good health and success. On the contrary, he simply told Gaius that he prayed for his well-being as any good friend would. In stark contrast to the teachings of the health, wealth, and prosperity doctrine of the Word of Faith Movement, health and prosperity are not guaranteed to Christians before the return of Christ in glory. See "As it is written - Romans 4:17"; "Share . . . in my troubles - Philippians 4:14"; "Why Do Christians Need Doctors?" and "Miracles: Do miracles happen today?" below.

healthy… it is well. This verse is not promising Gaius health and success. Christians are not guaranteed those things before Jesus returns, and interpretations that promise prosperity do not have biblical basis. Rather, this is just how ancient letters worked. The themes of success and good health show up in personal letters throughout the Greek world (see note on Rom. 1:10). This is just how a writer greeted a reader. It is like asking, “How are you?”

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