How does Nehemiah 12:25 encourage us to support those serving in ministry? Setting and Snapshot of the Verse - Nehemiah is cataloging the priests, Levites, singers, and “gatekeepers.” - The verse names six men and notes they “were gatekeepers” and “guarded the storerooms at the gates” (Nehemiah 12:25). - These gatekeepers served quietly yet vitally, protecting worship resources and ensuring orderly ministry. What Gatekeepers Teach Us about Ministry Support - Hidden service is still God-appointed. - Their task shielded sacred supplies so others could worship. - Faithfulness, not fame, defines true ministry success (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:2). Scriptural Principles That Call Us to Support Servants - Shared blessing: “The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor” (Galatians 6:6). - Deserved honor: “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor… ‘The worker is worthy of his wages’” (1 Timothy 5:17-18). - Mutual dependence: Priests in the temple “eat from the offerings” (1 Corinthians 9:13-14)—a precedent for caring for modern servants. Why Our Support Matters - It protects ministry resources, just as gatekeepers protected storerooms. - It frees ministers to focus on teaching, shepherding, and evangelizing. - It testifies that we value God’s work above personal convenience. Practical Ways to Stand with Today’s Gatekeepers • Give consistently—budget for your church and missionary partners first. • Lend skills—administration, tech, music, maintenance. • Speak encouragement—notes, texts, and public affirmation. • Intercede regularly—pray for protection, provision, and perseverance. • Guard their time—respect study hours, offer childcare, lighten event loads. Living the Lesson Nehemiah 12:25 may feel like a footnote, yet it highlights men who quietly kept God’s house secure. When we finance, volunteer, and pray, we join their legacy—standing watch so the gospel can advance unhindered. |
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