After warning Gaius not to follow the ungodly example of Diotrephes, a proud and controlling church leader (3 John 1:9-11), John points to Demetrius as a reliable role model in ministry.  That man was transparent to the church.  He had no hidden agenda; he was a servant of Jesus Christ whose ministry was endorsed by the apostles.  As far as we know, he was not the pagan silversmith, Demetrius, of Acts 19:23-41 – but if he was, then he had been clearly transformed by the Lord as he believed the gospel.

Such men are a blessing to the church, not only by their fine godly service but because they inspire others to use their gifts in a way which pleases the Lord.  Demetrius’ life demonstrated that he was living according to the gospel (Colossians 2:6-7) and that witness encouraged all the believers, and John was glad to affirm that he was following Jesus.

John's final greetings show that he is a relational man, a true elder and pastor.  Letters were necessary because he was away from Gaius, but he longed for the opportunity of personal fellowship again with his trusted friend and fellow believers.  He wanted to encourage this man to keep walking in the truth (3 John 1:3-4).  Yes, he was a loved brother, a trusted worker who was well respected; but John wanted Gaius to grow more and more in Christ and learn how to serve Him better.

Other believers influence us more than we can know.  Without soaking in God's Word and praying, we cannot properly understand how much of their example is good for us to follow.  We can be so easily misled.  And yet, when we do find a person whose integrity is transparently godly, that is a good role model to copy.  In the same way, we all provide an example for others.  Let us be sure that it is a good and godly example, then we can encourage other believers.