Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. Above all things, х peri (G4012)] - 'concerning all things.' Alford, in all respects. Wahl justifies the English version (cf. 1 Peter 4:8). Since his soul's prosperity is presupposed, "above all things" does not imply that John wishes Gaius' bodily prosperity above that of his soul, but as the first object to be desired next after spiritual health. I know you are prospering in your soul. I wish you similar prosperity in your body. Perhaps John had heard from the brethren (3 John 1:3) that Gains was in bad health, and was tried in other ways (3 John
10), to which the wish refers. Prosper - in general. Be in health - in particular.