How can we support fellow believers in their ministry, as Paul suggests? Opening the Text “No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers.” — 1 Corinthians 16:11 Paul is urging the Corinthian church to back Timothy wholeheartedly—respect him, protect him from scorn, and equip him for the next leg of ministry. In one sentence we hear Paul’s passion for teamwork and his conviction that believers must stand shoulder to shoulder. Why Support Matters • Ministry is a shared calling, not a solo act. • Obedience here displays love for Christ (John 13:35). • When we strengthen a servant, we strengthen every life that servant will touch (Philippians 1:3-5). Practical Ways to Send Co-Workers “On Their Way in Peace” 1. Guard their reputation • “No one… should treat him with contempt.” • Speak up if you hear belittling words (Proverbs 31:8-9). • Refuse to entertain gossip; instead, “hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work” (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). 2. Supply material needs • Paul often expected churches to “help [him] on [his] journey” (Romans 15:24). • Financial gifts, tools, transportation, technology—whatever keeps the gospel moving. • Remember Luke 10:7: “the worker is worthy of his wages.” 3. Offer warm hospitality • Lodging, meals, local guidance—simple acts that refresh weary travelers (3 John 5-8). • Hospitality is mission partnership; we “become fellow workers for the truth.” 4. Encourage constantly • Verbal affirmation: “Welcome him… with great joy, and honor men like him” (Philippians 2:29). • Written notes or texts that celebrate victories and acknowledge sacrifices. • Publicly thank them when appropriate; private thanks always. 5. Pray strategically • Paul repeatedly begged, “Brothers, pray for us” (1 Thessalonians 5:25). • Pray for open doors (Colossians 4:3), bold speech (Ephesians 6:19-20), spiritual stamina (Colossians 1:11). • Tell them you’re praying; it fuels courage. 6. Stand with them in hardship • Share burdens (Galatians 6:2). • When opposition rises, show up physically, write letters, connect resources. • Timothy faced intimidation; Paul’s directive ensured he wouldn’t face it alone. Guarding Them from Contempt • Respect is more than polite smiles; it’s active defense. • Remind doubters of God’s call on the servant’s life (Acts 13:2-3 pattern). • Correct misinformation with truth and gentleness (2 Timothy 2:24-25). Meeting Material Needs • Faithfully set aside funds (1 Corinthians 16:2 context). • Partner long-term, not one-time. Epaphroditus risked his life to deliver Philippi’s ongoing support (Philippians 2:30). • Give “in a manner worthy of God” (3 John 6)—generously, cheerfully, promptly. Refreshing Souls with Encouragement • Celebrate fruit: share testimonies of changed lives. • Remind them that their labor “in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Send verses that anchor hope (Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 121). Partnering Through Prayer • Create a prayer calendar covering each worker daily. • Fast periodically for breakthrough moments (Acts 13:2-3). • Enlist small-group and family participation; multiply intercession. Hospitality That Advances the Gospel • Open your home for rest days between assignments. • Provide space for planning retreats or sermon preparation. • Include them at your table; conversation over a meal often renews vision (Acts 28:14-15). Standing with Them Until the Work Is Done • Keep correspondence alive even after they move on. • Re-invite them to share updates; celebrate milestones together. • When the season ends, help with re-entry, debrief, and future direction (Acts 14:26-28 model). Living the Lesson Today Supporting fellow believers is not optional; it is gospel culture. Paul’s short instruction in 1 Corinthians 16:11 invites every generation to: • Reject contempt. • Provide peace. • Expect great things as we unite. When we send God’s servants forward well, we stride beside them in the harvest and share in the eternal reward promised by our Lord (Matthew 10:40-42). |
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