How can you personally apply the principles of 3 John 1:6 this week? Setting the Verse in Context 3 John 1:6: “They have testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.” John commends Gaius for showing practical love to traveling believers, urging him to keep treating them “in a manner worthy of God.” The heart of the verse is generous, God-honoring hospitality that advances the gospel. Key Truths to Embrace • Genuine love shows itself through tangible support of fellow believers. • Hospitality is not optional; it is a God-honoring duty tied to our witness. • Our standard is “worthy of God,” not merely polite kindness. Practical Steps for This Week Open Your Door • Invite a missionary, church worker, or new believer for a meal. • If distance prevents hosting, schedule a video call to encourage them and pray over their needs. • Keep a guest-ready space (even if it’s a cleared couch) as a standing offer. Share Your Resources • Set aside a specific gift—money, grocery card, gas card—directly for someone laboring for the gospel. • Offer your vehicle, tools, or skills (childcare, tech help) to free them for ministry. • Mail a care package with handwritten Scripture promises and practical items. Speak Life • Send a short, Scripture-filled note each day to someone serving Christ. • Publicly “testify” of their love, as John mentions, by sharing their story with your Bible study or social media circle—sparking wider support. Stand with the Church Family • Ask your pastor which workers need encouragement now; agree to “adopt” one for ongoing support. • Attend a mission report or midweek service you usually skip, simply to be present and affirm those who are serving. Live the “Worthy of God” Standard • Evaluate hospitality plans by asking, “Would this make Christ look generous?” Upgrade food, lodging, or gifts accordingly. • Retrieve an overlooked church reimbursement form and turn it into a personal gift, absorbing the cost joyfully. Scriptures That Reinforce the Call • Romans 12:13: “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” • Hebrews 13:2: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” • 1 Peter 4:9: “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” • Galatians 6:10: “As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.” • Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” A Closing Challenge Before the week ends, let at least one believer testify of your love because you met a real need and sent them on in a manner worthy of God. |
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