How can we support fellow believers in their vocational and ministry endeavors? Shared Vocations: Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla “and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked with them. They were tentmakers by trade.” (Acts 18:3) • Paul did not view manual labor as beneath an apostle; he gladly joined Aquila and Priscilla in tentmaking. • Vocational partnership opened the door for close fellowship, mutual encouragement, and joint ministry (see vv. 4–5). Lessons From Their Partnership 1. Value everyday work • Scripture presents labor as honorable (Genesis 2:15; Proverbs 22:29). • By sharing the same trade, Paul modeled that secular skills can fuel spiritual impact. 2. Provide tangible support • Aquila and Priscilla offered lodging and shop space—practical resources that strengthened Paul’s ministry. • Later, they risked their lives for him (Romans 16:3-4). 3. Encourage gospel focus amid work • Even while crafting tents, they discussed Scripture and discipled others (Acts 18:26). • Workplaces became mission fields without compromising excellence in trade. Practical Ways to Support Today • Share skills: Offer professional expertise—accounting, carpentry, tech help—to lessen burdens on fellow believers in ministry. • Open doors: Introduce brothers and sisters to reliable clients, employers, or donors. • Provide space: A spare office, garage, or guest room can enable itinerant workers or church planters to live and labor. • Give financially: Regular, cheerful giving funds tools, training, and travel (Philippians 4:15-17). • Show up: Attend launches, performances, or outreach events; presence communicates worth (2 Timothy 1:16-18). • Pray specifically: Name their projects, deadlines, and spiritual battles before the Lord (Ephesians 6:18-20). Scripture Connections • Galatians 6:2 — “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 — “Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing.” • 3 John 5-8 — Commends believers who “send them on their way in a manner worthy of God,” becoming “fellow workers for the truth.” • Hebrews 10:24 — “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” Heart Check: Motives for Support • Love, not obligation (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). • Kingdom advancement over personal gain (Matthew 6:33). • Joyful partnership that reflects Christ’s self-giving nature (Philippians 2:1-5). |
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