What other Scriptures emphasize supporting those who "went out for the sake"? The Heart of 3 John 1:7 • “For they went out on behalf of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.” • John commends believers who supply what traveling teachers would not take from outsiders. Support is an act of loyalty to “the Name” (Jesus) and to His truth. Old-Covenant Foundations for Supporting God’s Workers • Numbers 18:21 – “I have given the Levites every tithe in Israel as an inheritance in return for the work they do while serving the Tent of Meeting.” • Deuteronomy 12:19 – “Be careful not to neglect the Levite as long as you live in your land.” • Principle: those set apart for ministry live from the gifts of God’s people. Jesus’ Direct Instructions • Matthew 10:40-42 – “He who receives you receives Me… whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones… will never lose his reward.” • Luke 10:7 – “Stay in that house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the worker is worthy of his wages.” • When the Lord sends messengers, He expects hospitable believers to meet their needs—and He attaches reward to that generosity. Paul’s Teaching and Example • 1 Corinthians 9:7-14 – “In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • 2 Corinthians 11:8-9 – “I robbed other churches by receiving their support… so that I could serve you.” • Philippians 4:14-19 – “Still, you did well to share in my affliction… And my God will supply all your needs.” • Romans 10:15 – “And how can they preach unless they are sent?” • Titus 3:13 – “Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way, so that they will lack nothing.” • Supporting gospel laborers is not optional; it is woven into apostolic practice and promise. Other New-Testament Voices • Galatians 6:6 – “Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” • 1 Timothy 5:17-18 – “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor… ‘The worker is worthy of his wages.’” • Hebrews 13:16 – “And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Key Threads That Tie the Passages Together • God appoints specific people to serve His Word; He appoints the rest of His people to supply their needs. • Generosity toward gospel workers equals honor for Christ Himself. • Scripture links material provision with spiritual fruit: those who give share in the harvest of souls (Philippians 4:17). • The pattern is timeless—rooted in the Law, affirmed by Christ, practiced by the apostles, urged upon every generation of believers. Living the Lesson Today • View missionaries, church planters, pastors, and teachers as “those who went out for the sake of the Name.” • Offer hospitality, financial support, and practical help freely, cheerfully, and consistently. • Remember that giving is worship—an act of confidence that God will “supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” |
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