In this episode of Daily Bible Refresh, Dr. Brad Miller reflects on 3 John 9–12 and the contrast between Diotrephes, who uses his authority to exclude others, and Demetrius, whose good character is affirmed by those around him. Through a story about unspoken “reserved seats,” Dr. Miller explores how fear and the desire for control can get in the way of hospitality. He argues that faith is shown not by winning arguments or claiming credentials, but by modeling goodness and showing up for others. The episode closes with a practical invitation to make room for someone, express appreciation, and pray for the courage to welcome those who are left outside.

Key takeaways

• Hospitality reveals what we believe: Welcoming others puts faith into practice.
• Control can crowd out welcome: Fear may lead us to protect our place or institution at the expense of someone seeking belonging.
• The door should be open to everyone: The “bread of life” is for the world, not only for those who already have a seat.
• Model goodness rather than argue for it: The passage calls people to demonstrate what is good through their actions.
• Presence builds credibility: Like Demetrius, people earn trust by showing up and being there for others.
• Make welcome concrete: Save a seat for someone and tell them what you appreciate about them.
• Choose courage over regret: Dr. Miller reflects that he has regretted shutting people out more than opening the door to them.

Links referenced in this episode:

• voiceofgoddaily.com

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is presented each day by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller who has a goal of speaking a bit of the bible into two million ears (one million people) in three years (2025-2028).

He is the author of "The A, B, C-1,2,3 Bible Study Guide" Free to you by clicking HERE.

Brad served as a local church pastor for forty years and has a background in radio and podcasting. Moreover, he is a life-long student of The Bible.

He believes in the words of Jesus that “scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21)

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available seven days a week by 6:00 am ET. The episodes are no longer than ten minutes long and are...

• Understandable: A reading from the New Testament (usually the Gospel) selected from the Revised Common Lectionary using "The Message" translation.
• Relatable: You will have a couple of "points to ponder" from the text which will relate to your life
• Applicable: Every episode includes a way you can take action based on the reading
• A recommended resource to help you go deeper in biblical study and spiritual direction.
• A prayer for your day.

A companion resource to the Voice of God Daily Podcast is the “ABC Bible Study Guide” available by clicking HERE.

The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available every day at VoiceofGodDaily.com on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major podcast directories.

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Remember… “All scripture is God-breathed and useful”(2 Timothy 3:16)