In what ways can we support church leaders as Publius supported Paul? Publius’ Example in Acts 28:7 “Nearby, there was an estate belonging to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us and entertained us hospitably for three days.” (Acts 28:7) Paul had just survived shipwreck; Publius stepped in immediately with three simple gifts—warm welcome, personal presence, and practical hospitality. Those same gifts set the pattern for supporting church leaders today. Welcoming Leaders into Our Lives Hospitality opens the door for every other form of support. • “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13) • “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” (1 Peter 4:9) • 3 John 5-8 commends believers who receive traveling ministers “in a manner worthy of God.” Ways we can imitate Publius: – Invite pastors or missionaries for a meal. – Offer guest-room space when they travel. – Be deliberately warm and approachable, especially after hard seasons of ministry. Meeting Practical Needs Publius provided food and lodging; believers are urged to share tangible resources. • “The one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.” (Galatians 6:6) • “Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor… ‘The worker is worthy of his wages.’” (1 Timothy 5:17-18) Practical ideas: – Regular, generous giving that reflects gratitude for spiritual care. – Gift cards, groceries, or help with repairs. – Cover conference fees or books so leaders stay equipped. Honoring Their Role Support is more than money; it is the attitude of esteem. • “Acknowledge those who work diligently among you… Esteem them most highly in love because of their work.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) Show honor by: – Speaking well of them in public and private. – Protecting them from gossip. – Remembering ministry anniversaries and expressing gratitude. Supporting Through Prayer Paul repeatedly asked for prayer; leaders still need it. • “Pray for us.” (Hebrews 13:18) • “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread quickly.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1) Commit to: – Daily intercession for wisdom, protection, and boldness. – Organized prayer teams covering specific needs. – Letting leaders know you are praying; it refreshes their spirits. Guarding Their Well-Being Publius gave Paul space to recover; we guard leaders physically and emotionally. Suggestions: – Encourage regular rest and vacation without guilt. – Volunteer to shoulder tasks so they can recharge. – Offer skilled counseling or medical help when needed. Sharing in the Work True partnership goes beyond cheering from the sidelines. • “We have partnership in the gospel.” (Philippians 1:5) Join the mission by: – Serving in ministries that match your gifts. – Accompanying leaders on visits, outreach, or mission trips. – Providing administrative or technical support behind the scenes. Encouraging Words Onesiphorus “often refreshed” Paul (2 Timothy 1:16-18). Timely words still refresh. – Send texts or notes after sermons explaining how God spoke to you. – Publicly share testimonies of answered prayer or growth. – Celebrate victories, no matter how small. Responding with Obedience Leaders labor in Scripture so the church will live it. • “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they watch over your souls… allow them to do this with joy.” (Hebrews 13:17) We support them when we: – Take teaching seriously and apply it. – Resolve conflicts biblically instead of letting bitterness grow. – Approach them with humility when disagreements arise. Putting It All Together Publius’ three-day hospitality models an ongoing lifestyle: welcome, resource, honor, pray, guard, partner, encourage, and obey. As each believer practices these habits, church leaders are freed—just as Paul was—to preach the gospel unhindered and the whole body grows in joy and strength. |
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