In what ways can we support missionaries as seen in Acts 28:10? Acts 28:10 – A Snapshot of Missionary Support “They honored us in many ways and supplied our needs when we were ready to sail.” (Acts 28:10) What the Maltese Did • Honored Paul and his team “in many ways” – practical respect, hospitality, public affirmation • “Supplied our needs” – gave the food, clothing, equipment, and travel provisions required for the next leg of ministry Timeless Principles for Supporting Missionaries Honor the servant • Show warm hospitality (Romans 12:13) • Invite them to share testimonies and treat them as teammates, not guests (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13) Meet material needs • Give consistent financial support (Philippians 4:14–18) • Send care packages, literature, tools, or technology they cannot access on the field Enable travel and logistics • Cover airfare, visas, transport, and shipping (Romans 15:24) • Store belongings or loan vehicles during furlough Provide refreshment and rest • Offer housing when missionaries are stateside (Philemon 22) • Give gift cards, vacation stays, or medical assistance so they return to the field renewed Partner in gospel work • Pray specifically and regularly (2 Corinthians 1:11) • Write encouraging letters or video messages (Colossians 4:7–9) • Share in their fruit; those who send share the reward (3 John 6–8) Why Our Support Matters • It meets genuine needs and keeps workers on the field (Luke 10:7) • It is credited “to your account” before God (Philippians 4:17) • It proclaims the worth of Christ when His messengers lack nothing (2 Corinthians 9:12–13) Putting It Into Action This Week 1. Choose one missionary to bless tangibly—send a gift or cover a bill. 2. Schedule a short video call just to listen and encourage. 3. Gather friends to pray over that missionary’s current projects. 4. Ask your church leadership how you can join the missions committee or hospitality team. Honoring, supplying, and standing with missionaries today follows the Maltese model of Acts 28:10—and lets the world see the generous heart of the Savior we serve. |
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