How does Matthew 10:40 influence our interactions with church leaders and missionaries? Setting the Verse “He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me.” — Matthew 10:40 The Chain of Representation • Jesus commissions and sends His messengers. • Receiving the messenger = receiving Christ Himself. • Receiving Christ = welcoming the Father who sent Him. • Therefore, how we treat Christ’s servants directly reflects our attitude toward God. Why This Matters for Church Leaders and Missionaries • Leaders and missionaries carry Christ’s words, authority, and presence into our lives (Luke 10:16). • Honoring them demonstrates love for Jesus and submission to the Father’s plan (John 13:20). • Supporting them unites us in the work of the gospel, making us “fellow workers for the truth” (3 John 5-8). Practical Ways to Live This Out Show Honor – Speak well of pastors, elders, and missionaries; guard against gossip (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). – Attend faithfully and listen attentively when they teach God’s Word. Offer Tangible Support – Provide hospitality, meals, and lodging when possible (3 John 5-8). – Give financially, viewing your gift as an investment in kingdom work (Philippians 4:14-17). – Volunteer skills and time, making their burdens lighter (Exodus 17:12 pattern). Practice Obedient Submission – Follow biblical leadership joyfully so they can “watch over your souls” with gladness, not grief (Hebrews 13:17). – Accept correction and discipleship as Christ’s own care for you (2 Timothy 4:2). Pray Diligently – Intercede for protection, boldness, and fruit (Ephesians 6:19-20). – Ask God to supply every need “according to His riches in glory” (Philippians 4:19). Warnings to Avoid • Indifference: ignoring or withholding support is effectively rejecting Christ (Matthew 10:14). • Criticism rooted in pride: opposing God-ordained leadership invites discipline (Numbers 12:1-10). • Consumer mindset: viewing church as a service rather than a family on mission erodes gospel partnership. Encouragement and Promises • Even a “cup of cold water” offered in Jesus’ name never loses its reward (Matthew 10:42). • Welcoming Christ’s messengers welcomes the very presence of God into your home and congregation (Mark 9:37). • Shared ministry fruit is credited to both the sender and the sent (Philippians 4:17). Receiving and supporting church leaders and missionaries, then, is not optional hospitality—it is a living confession that Jesus is Lord and the Father is worthy of honor. |
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