Matthew Henry Commentary 3 John 1:13-14

"I had many things to write unto thee, but I am unwilling to write [them] to thee with ink and pen: but I hope shortly to see thee, and we shall speak face to face. Peace [be] unto thee. The friends salute thee. Salute the friends by name." — 3 John 1:13-14 (ASV)

Here is the character of Demetrius. A name in the gospel, or a good report in the churches, is better than worldly honour. Few are well spoken of by all, and sometimes it is bad to be so. Happy those whose spirit and conduct commend them before God and men.

We must be ready to bear our testimony to them; and it is good when those who commend can appeal to the consciences of those who know the commended individuals best. A personal conversation together often spares time and trouble, and mistakes that arise from letters; and good Christians may rightly be glad to see one another.

The blessing is, Peace be to you; all happiness attend you. Those may rightly salute and greet one another on earth who hope to live together in heaven. By associating with and copying the example of such Christians, we will have peace within and live at peace with our fellow believers; our communications with the Lord's people on earth will be pleasing, and we will be numbered with them in glory everlasting.