How can we support church leaders like those listed in Acts 20:4 today? A Living Snapshot: Acts 20:4 “He was accompanied by Sopater son of Pyrrhus from Berea, Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, Gaius from Derbe, Timothy, as well as Tychicus and Trophimus from the province of Asia.” (Acts 20:4) Luke records more than travel companions here. These men: • Stood with Paul in ministry. • Bridged cultures and congregations. • Carried offerings to Jerusalem (cf. Acts 20:22; 2 Corinthians 8–9). Their loyalty, labor, and love show what support looks like when the gospel advances. Why Their Example Matters • Leaders cannot serve alone (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). • Christ’s body thrives when every part “works properly” (Ephesians 4:16). • Scripture commands honor for those who shepherd (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13; Hebrews 13:17). Seven Ways to Support Leaders Today 1. Prayerful Covering • “Brothers, pray for us.” (1 Thessalonians 5:25) • Intercede daily for wisdom, purity, family health, and boldness. 2. Encouraging Words • “A word spoken at the right time—how good it is!” (Proverbs 15:23). • Send notes, texts, or speak face-to-face; celebrate progress, not just outcomes. 3. Financial Partnership • “Share in all good things with his instructor.” (Galatians 6:6) • Tithe faithfully, give above-and-beyond for missions, conferences, sabbaticals. 4. Hands-On Help • The seven in Acts 20 carried funds, messages, and logistical burdens. • Volunteer for setup, administration, tech, children’s ministry, visitation. 5. Hospitable Care • “Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13) • Open your home for meals, lodging for guest speakers, or quiet retreat space. 6. Loyal Advocacy • Defend leaders against gossip (Proverbs 17:9). • Speak truth in love when correction is needed, but refuse divisive talk (Titus 3:10). 7. Joyful Submission • “Obey your leaders and submit to them…that they may do this with joy.” (Hebrews 13:17) • Follow leadership decisions quickly and cheerfully, easing their emotional load. Guarding the Gift of Leadership • Support includes accountability (Galatians 2:11-14). • Provide trusted counsel, financial transparency teams, and rest rhythms. • Healthy oversight protects both leader and flock (Acts 20:28). Fruit That Abounds to Our Account Like Philippi’s gifts to Paul, our partnership “increases to your credit” (Philippians 4:17). When we stand with pastors, elders, missionaries, and ministry staff, heaven records eternal dividends, and the gospel advances just as it did through Sopater, Aristarchus, and the rest. |
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