How can you personally support those who "accept nothing from the Gentiles"? Setting the Scene “For they went out on behalf of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.” (3 John 1:7) John commends itinerant gospel workers who refused financial help from unbelievers so the message would remain untainted and the Lord alone would receive the credit. Their example challenges fellow believers to step in and meet their needs. Why “accepting nothing from the Gentiles” matters • Guarded the purity of the gospel—no hint of pagan patronage (cf. 2 Corinthians 2:17). • Demonstrated trust in the Lord’s provision through His people (Philippians 4:15-19). • Preserved their testimony, avoiding confusion about motives (1 Thessalonians 2:3-6). • Invited the church to share in the work and reward (3 John 1:8). Practical Ways You Can Personally Support Such Workers • Open-handed giving – Set aside a regular, prioritized gift for missionaries and gospel ministries. – Consider one-time needs: emergency funds, special projects, travel costs. • Hospitable care – Offer lodging, meals, transportation, and a restful environment when they pass through (cf. Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2). – Include them in family life rather than treating them as guests in a hotel. • Skill-based assistance – Use professional abilities (medical, legal, tech, accounting) freely for their benefit (1 Peter 4:10). – Help with visa paperwork, media production, website maintenance, or language tutoring. • Encouragement and advocacy – Write timely notes, video-chat, or send voice messages that build them up (Proverbs 25:25). – Introduce them to other like-minded believers and churches for future partnerships. • Prayer partnership – Pray informed, specific prayers based on their updates (Ephesians 6:18-20; Colossians 4:2-4). – Fast occasionally for critical seasons of ministry or decisions. • Integrity covering – Provide accountability structures: financial transparency, pastoral check-ins, moral safeguards (Acts 14:26-28). – Defend their reputation when misrepresented, standing with them publicly (2 Timothy 4:16-17). • Long-term friendship – Remember birthdays, anniversaries, and ministry milestones. – Offer a listening ear during discouraging seasons; celebrate victories together (Romans 12:15). Heart Attitudes that Honor God • Cheerful generosity, not reluctant obligation (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Humble partnership, viewing yourself as a coworker, not a distant benefactor (Philippians 1:3-5). • Faith in God’s promise to supply your own needs as you give (Luke 6:38). • Joyful anticipation of eternal reward for shared labor in the truth (3 John 1:8). Connecting Scriptures • 3 John 1:5-8—The immediate call to “send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.” • Matthew 10:40-42—Receiving a messenger equals receiving Christ; even a cup of cold water is noticed. • Acts 20:34-35—Paul models self-support yet affirms the blessing of giving. • Galatians 6:6-10—“Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.” • 1 Corinthians 9:13-14—The Lord ordained that those who proclaim the gospel should live by the gospel, supported by believers. Putting It Into Practice This Week • Identify one missionary or ministry that depends solely on believers. • Contact them to learn a current need you can meet immediately. • Schedule a recurring reminder to pray and give monthly. • Invite a fellow believer to join you so the support multiplies. |
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