[This is being written by] the elder to my dear [friend] Gaius, whom I love in the truth. [Note: This may mean "whom I truly love"].

For I was very happy when some of the brothers came and told me that you are being [faithful] to the truth [i.e., the word of God], and that you are living according to it, [as well].

I know of no greater blessing than hearing that my children are being guided by the truth.

My loved one, you are doing a good work in being kind to those brothers who come from other places;

Therefore, if I come, I will call attention to {the deeds he is doing}, disparaging us with evil words. And not being content with these, he does not receive the brothers himself, and he hinders those wanting [to do so] and throws [them] out of the church.