I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:
Other translations
I had many things to write to you, but I am unwilling to write to you with ink and pen;
I had many things to write, but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee:
Word study
Commentary
Matthew Henry
I. Demetrius, on the other hand, has a good report from all and of the truth itself. John and others also bear witness to his character, and Gaius can trust this testimony. Demetrius was likely well known to both John’s church and Gaius's. II. John closes the letter expressing a desire to see Gaius soon and wishing him peace. He also sends greetings from mutual friends and instructs Gaius to greet their friends by name, indicating a personal connection.
Adam Clarke
I had many things to write - That is, I have many things that I might write; but having the hope of seeing thee shortly, I will not commit them to paper. Ink and pen are here mentioned; paper and ink in the preceding epistle.
John Gill
I have many things to write,.... With regard to churches, and particular persons, and concerning hospitality to the poor brethren:
but I will not with ink and pen write unto thee; suggesting he should take another method of communicating his mind to him, which he next mentions.
JFB
I will not--rather as Greek, "I wish not . . . to write" more.
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