“I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church.” [3 John …verse 10].

I actually know a couple of people who are like Diotrephes (e.g. people who talk wicked nonsense against us). And I sometimes do bring up what they are doing. But then what? I’m still wrestling through this. I’m not really sure what to say beyond that.

It seems like David candidly brought up the wicked nonsense that King Saul was speaking against him, and it never really led to reconciliation or restoration between him and Saul. [1 Samuel, chapters 24 & 26].

*It’s a dangerous thing to bring up what Diotrephes is doing! …For example, when Jonathan candidly brought up the fact that Saul was speaking wicked nonsense against David, Saul’s anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said to him, “You son of a perverse, rebellious woman, do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse to your own shame, and to the shame of your mother’s nakedness?!” AND Saul hurled his spear at Jonathan to strike him. …And Jonathan rose from the table in fierce anger and ate no food the second day of the month, for he was grieved for David, because his father had disgraced him. [1 Samuel, chapter 20, verses 30-34].

The best word I’ve heard on what I should do is – – – > Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies. Patiently endure evil. AND believe that God may perhaps grant ________________________ (write the names of the people you personally know who are like Diotrephes and King Saul) repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.