How can we "send them on their way" in a manner pleasing to God? Setting the Scene “ ‘They have testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.’ ” (3 John 1:6) Gaius had welcomed traveling gospel workers. John urges him to complete the service by launching them out again—equipped, encouraged, and honored. That timeless call still lands on us today. What “in a manner worthy of God” Looks Like • Treat them as Christ’s own ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Give generously so they “will lack nothing” (Titus 3:13). • Communicate respect—dignified lodging, good meals, thoughtful conversation. • Pray with and for them before they leave (Acts 20:36). • Provide reliable information, contacts, and safe travel plans (Acts 15:3). • Refresh their spirits with sincere words of gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:11). • Release them promptly; don’t detain workers God is sending onward (Mark 1:38). Scriptural Anchors • Matthew 10:40-42 – Welcoming messengers equals welcoming Christ; even a cup of cold water is noticed in heaven. • Romans 12:13 – “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.” • Hebrews 13:2 – Some have “entertained angels without knowing it.” • Philippians 4:15-19 – Financial partnership is “a fragrant offering…pleasing to God,” and God meets the giver’s needs. • 3 John 1:8 – “We ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth.” Motives That Honor Him • Love for Christ (John 21:15-17) more than love for applause. • Commitment to the gospel, not personal agendas. • Desire to share eternal fruit (Philippians 4:17). • Awareness that supporting workers is worship (Philippians 4:18). Guardrails of Discernment • Support only those who “went out on behalf of the Name” (3 John 1:7); refuse false teachers (2 John 1:10-11). • Keep giving voluntary, cheerful, and private (2 Corinthians 9:7; Matthew 6:3-4). • Maintain personal integrity; avoid favoritism or manipulation (James 2:1-4). Practical Checklist for Today - Budget a specific line for missions and traveling ministers. - Host with warmth: clean space, good food, quiet rest. - Offer transportation: airport runs, fuel cards, maps. - Share technology help: Wi-Fi access, printing, presentation tools. - Send them off with tangible supplies: literature, medical kits, snacks. - Stay connected: periodic check-ins, birthday notes, crisis response. - Mobilize the church family—multiple homes lighten any one load. - Celebrate reports upon their return, reinforcing a cycle of sending. The Blessing of Partnership When we “send them on their way” God’s way, we step into the harvest with them. Their victories become ours; their needs teach us faith; their stories ignite fresh zeal at home. Obedience here turns ordinary hospitality into eternal investment—“fellow workers for the truth” (3 John 1:8). |
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