Why is it important to recognize and support evangelists in our church community? A Snapshot from Acts 21:8 “Leaving the next day, we came to Caesarea and entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the Seven, and stayed with him.” Luke’s travel note might look incidental, yet it quietly models how believers welcomed and honored an evangelist. This one sentence opens a window into the vital place evangelists hold in the life of the church. Philip’s Example: What We Learn About Evangelists • He is called “the evangelist,” highlighting a God-given role, not merely a hobby. • He was “one of the Seven” (Acts 6:1-6), proving character and service precede public ministry. • His home became a ministry hub; hospitality and evangelism fit naturally together (cf. Acts 8; 21:9). • Apostolic travelers recognized his gifting and gladly stayed under his roof, showing mutual respect among leaders. Why Recognition Matters • Christ Himself appoints evangelists: “He gave some to be apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers” (Ephesians 4:11-12). When we acknowledge them, we honor Christ’s design for building His body. • Recognition affirms their message: “How can they hear without someone preaching? … ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” (Romans 10:14-15). • Public affirmation safeguards against neglect or misunderstanding of their calling (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • It inspires others. Seeing Philip faithfully evangelize encouraged his four prophetic daughters (Acts 21:9) and countless believers who read Luke’s account today. Why Support Matters • Spiritual fruit often requires practical help. Paul teaches, “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:14). • Support extends the reach of the gospel: “You sent me aid again and again when I was in need… I am amply supplied” (Philippians 4:16-18). • Partnership makes us fellow workers for the truth: “We ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers with the truth” (3 John 8). • It frees evangelists to focus: “As for you, be sober-minded… do the work of an evangelist; fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5). Material burdens lifted, they can devote themselves fully to proclamation. Practical Ways to Respond Today 1. Identify those with evident evangelistic gifting in your congregation; speak words of encouragement publicly and privately. 2. Open your home as the believers in Caesarea did; hospitality refreshes traveling ministers and models gospel love (Romans 12:13). 3. Include evangelists in the church budget, providing regular, transparent financial support. 4. Pray consistently for boldness and open doors (Colossians 4:3-4). 5. Join the mission personally—go out with them, supply literature, share transportation costs, or offer professional skills that advance their outreach. Welcoming and sustaining evangelists is not optional; it is a direct expression of obedience to Christ, faithfulness to Scripture, and love for a lost world Christ came to save. |
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