In what ways can we support missionaries facing opposition today? Facing Opposition: The Pattern in Acts 13:50 “ But the Jews incited the devout women of prominence and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and expelled them from their district.” (Acts 13:50) Opposition did not silence Paul and Barnabas; it drew the church into deeper partnership. That same pattern guides how we stand with today’s missionaries. Stand in Steadfast Prayer • Intercede regularly: “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread quickly and be honored.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1) • Pray for boldness and clarity: “Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.” (Ephesians 6:18-20) • Join in fasting when crises arise (Acts 14:23). • Alert others to form prayer chains—Paul relied on “many people’s prayers” (2 Corinthians 1:11). Refresh with Encouragement • Send Scripture-filled emails, texts, or voice messages (Proverbs 25:25; Hebrews 10:24). • Schedule video calls that focus on listening rather than advising. • Mail handwritten letters; tangible words travel where internet fails (Colossians 4:7-9). • Visit when possible—Onesiphorus “often refreshed” Paul and “was not ashamed of my chains.” (2 Timothy 1:16-17) Supply Practical and Financial Help • Commit to consistent giving, not just one-time gifts (Philippians 4:15-18). • Send specialized resources—literature, medical supplies, secure tech. • Cover emergency needs quickly; opposition often brings sudden losses (Acts 17:5-10). • Provide safe housing or evacuation funds when threats escalate (Romans 15:24). Advocate and Raise Awareness • Share their stories with your church and community (3 John 6-8). • Engage elected officials or organizations when legal pressure mounts (Acts 25:11-12). • Use social media wisely to spotlight needs while protecting security. • Mobilize short-term teams to shoulder projects, showing the local authorities that believers stand together. Offer Emotional and Family Care • Arrange counseling or debrief retreats after trauma (Acts 14:26-27). • Send care packages for children—books, snacks, birthday gifts. • Cover travel so missionaries can attend family weddings, funerals, graduations. • Provide mentors who understand cross-cultural stress (Galatians 6:2). Strengthen Them for Long-Term Faithfulness • Remind them that “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” (Acts 14:22) • Invite them to teach when on home assignment—honor their calling publicly (1 Corinthians 16:10-11). • Challenge your congregation to persevere alongside them, “not growing weary in doing good.” (Galatians 6:9-10) As the early church rallied around Paul and Barnabas, so we rally today—praying, encouraging, supplying, advocating, and caring until the gospel reaches the ends of the earth. |
    |