How can church communities support those called to specific missions like in Ezra 1:5? The Spark in Ezra 1:5 “Then the heads of the families of Judah and Benjamin, along with the priests and Levites—everyone whose spirit God had stirred—prepared to go up to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem.” Recognizing God-Stirred Hearts Today • God Himself initiates mission by stirring specific people. • The community’s first role is discernment—seeing and affirming that divine stirring rather than merely human ambition (Acts 13:2). Practical Ways a Church Can Stand With the Sent Ones • Spiritual covering – Regular corporate prayer and fasting (Colossians 4:3) – Elders laying on hands in a commissioning service (Acts 13:3) • Financial partnership – Joyful, planned giving so missionaries “lack nothing” (Philippians 4:15-16) – Budget line items that prioritize mission over extras • Material resourcing – Tools, training materials, language courses, visas, insurance – Short-term teams to assist without overshadowing the long-term call • Relational support – Regular updates read aloud in services (3 John 5-8) – Assigned point persons who maintain weekly contact and advocate needs • Practical send-off logistics – Help with packing, storage, selling possessions, airport rides – Clear written agreements on expectations, accountability, and return plans Biblical Snapshots of Community Backing • Moses and the craftsmen supplied by Israel’s freewill offerings (Exodus 35:20-29). • David providing resources so Solomon could build the temple (1 Chronicles 22:5). • The Antioch church sending Paul and Barnabas, then welcoming them back for reports (Acts 14:27). Maintaining the Partnership Over Time • Schedule mission spotlights in worship gatherings. • Celebrate milestones—support letters answered, souls saved, churches planted. • Offer furlough housing and counseling to sustain emotional and spiritual health (Mark 6:31). Blessing That Flows Both Directions • The sending church shares in the fruit of the harvest (Philippians 1:7). • Missionaries model faith and obedience, sharpening the home body’s devotion (Hebrews 10:24). Putting It Into Motion • Identify stirred hearts. • Publicly affirm and commission. • Commit to ongoing prayer, provision, and presence. • Rejoice together as God builds His house—whether in Jerusalem, Judea, or the ends of the earth. |
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