Bible Figure
Diotrephes
human biblical figure in Third Epistle of John:9-10
Diotrephes was a church leader condemned by the author of 3 John for seeking preeminence, rejecting apostolic authority, and mistreating other believers.
Biography
Third John says Diotrephes loved to be first and would not welcome the apostolic writer's authority. He spread malicious accusations, refused to welcome traveling brothers, and attempted to expel from the church those who wished to receive them. The writer promised to call attention to his conduct when he came and urged Gaius not to imitate evil.
Biblical Significance
Diotrephes is a New Testament warning against pride, authoritarian church leadership, slander, and hostility toward faithful Christian workers.