In what ways can your church support traveling missionaries and ministers?

A Faithful Pattern from 3 John 1:5

“Beloved, you are faithful in what you do for the brothers, and especially since they are strangers to you.”

John commends Gaius for tangible, trustworthy care of itinerant servants of Christ. This verse sets the template: love expressed through concrete help, even when we have never met the workers before.

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Practical Ways Your Church Can Support Traveling Missionaries and Ministers

• Warm hospitality when they pass through—meals, lodging, transportation (Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2)

• Ongoing, intentional prayer—corporate and individual (Ephesians 6:18-20; 2 Thessalonians 3:1)

• Generous financial partnership—regular giving and special offerings (Philippians 4:15-18; 1 Corinthians 9:14)

• Supplying ministry resources—Bibles, literature, technology, medical supplies, tools (2 Timothy 4:13)

• Personal encouragement—letters, video calls, care packages (Acts 18:27; 2 Timothy 1:16-18)

• Logistical assistance—help with visas, housing searches, vehicle repair, childcare when stateside (Titus 3:13-14)

• Short-term teams—sending capable volunteers to bolster field projects (Acts 13:5; Philippians 2:25)

• Skill training—language classes, trauma care, administrative support (Proverbs 27:17)

• Advocacy—regularly highlighting their stories in services and social media so the whole body stays engaged (Acts 14:27)

• Accountability with grace—checking on spiritual health, doctrine, and stewardship (Acts 15:36; Galatians 6:1-2)

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Why These Efforts Matter

• They honor Christ by valuing those who carry His gospel (Matthew 10:40-42).

• They fulfill our shared mission mandate (Romans 10:14-15).

• They knit local and global church families together (Ephesians 4:15-16).

• They lay up eternal reward for both senders and goers (Philippians 4:17).

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Taking the Next Step

Look at the list, choose one or two actions your congregation can begin this month, and follow through faithfully—just as Gaius did for strangers who became partners in the truth.