What other scriptures emphasize collaboration in spreading the Gospel? Acts 20:4—A Snapshot of Team Ministry • “And Sopater the Berean son of Pyrrhus accompanied him, along with Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derbe, Timothy, and Tychicus and Trophimus of Asia.” • Seven men from at least five regions travel with Paul. The Spirit highlights that gospel advance is a shared calling, not a solo adventure. Jesus Sends Disciples in Pairs • Mark 6:7 — “Then Jesus called the Twelve to Him and began to send them out two by two, and He gave them authority over unclean spirits.” • Luke 10:1 — “After this, the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place He was about to visit.” ‑ Jesus models mutual support, shared witness, and spiritual accountability from the outset. The Great Commission Is a Group Assignment • Matthew 28:19-20 — “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” ‑ The “you” is plural; the command rests on the whole body of believers. The Early Church’s Collaborative Rhythm • Acts 13:2-3 — “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them… they laid their hands on them and sent them off.” • Acts 15:40-41 — “Paul chose Silas and departed… strengthening the churches.” • Acts 18:26 — “Priscilla and Aquila… took him [Apollos] in and explained to him the way of God more adequately.” ‑ The Spirit repeatedly pairs and groups workers to plant, confirm, and teach. Paul’s Letters Highlight Co-Workers “I planted the seed and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow… For we are God’s fellow workers.” “I thank my God… because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” “Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life.” “Help these women who have labored beside me in the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers.” ‑ Paul never pictures ministry as a one-man show; he names and honors many hands. Multiplication Mindset • 2 Timothy 2:2 — “And the things you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” ‑ Four generations appear in one verse: Paul → Timothy → faithful men → others. Collaboration safeguards truth and extends reach. Partnering Through Practical Support • 3 John 8 — “Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers for the truth.” ‑ Even those who provide lodging, funds, or encouragement become full participants in the mission. Why God Loves to Work Through Teams • Diverse gifts meet diverse needs (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). • Unity displays the gospel’s reconciling power (John 17:21). • Shared labor prevents burnout and pride (Galatians 6:2). • Cooperation magnifies thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). Putting It into Practice Today • Pray and plan with others before stepping out. • Pair veteran believers with newer ones to model and multiply ministry skills. • Celebrate every role—sending, giving, hosting, teaching—as genuine gospel work. • Keep lists of co-workers, like Paul’s, and thank God for them regularly. |
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