Fathers

3 John 1

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The elder to Gaius the beloved, whom I love in truth. Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers. For I rejoiced greatly when brothers came and testified about your truth, even as you walk in truth. I have no greater joy than this: to hear about my children walking in truth. Beloved, you do a faithful work in whatever you accomplish for those who are brothers and strangers. They have testified about your love before the assembly. You will do well to send them forward on their journey in a way worthy of God, because for the sake of the Name they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we may be fellow workers for the truth. I wrote to the assembly, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, doesn’t accept what we say. Therefore if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words. Not content with this, neither does he himself receive the brothers, and those who would, he forbids and throws out of the assembly. Beloved, don’t imitate that which is evil, but that which is good. He who does good is of God. He who does evil hasn’t seen God. Demetrius has the testimony of all, and of the truth itself; yes, we also testify, and you know that our testimony is true. I had many things to write to you, but I am unwilling to write to you with ink and pen; but I hope to see you soon. Then we will speak face to face. Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends by name.

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What the Fathers say

3 John 1:4

Eastern Fathers

Theophylact of Ohrid

The expression μειζοτέραν is not in accord with the elegance of the Greek language; for to the comparative degree (μείζονα) yet another comparative suffix (-τερ) has been added.

Commentary on 3 John ↗

Oecumenius

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. "no greater joy than." The term "greater" (µειζοτέραν) according to the practice of the Greek language is not a suitable comparative expression, but it is placed as if seeking a more fervent exaggeration, and thus the comparative is formed from the comparative.

Commentary on 3 John ↗

Western Saints

Bede

I have no greater joy than this, etc. That is, that I recognize those whom I have begotten to God by preaching or baptizing, observing the truth both of right faith and good operation.

Commentary on the Catholic Epistles ↗