What other scriptures emphasize the importance of supporting God's work financially? The Philippians’ Example of Partnership “And you Philippians as well know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving.” (Philippians 4:15) Paul highlights how financial partnership propelled the gospel forward. Scripture repeatedly affirms this same pattern. Old Testament Foundations for Funding God’s Work • Malachi 3:10 — “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… See if I will not open the floodgates of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.” • Proverbs 3:9-10 — “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits… then your barns will be filled with plenty.” • Exodus 25:1-2 — Offerings for the tabernacle came “from every man whose heart compels him.” • Numbers 18:21 & Leviticus 27:30 — Tithes assigned to Levites “in exchange for the work they do.” • Psalm 96:8 — “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering and enter His courts.” These passages establish that God’s work has always been sustained by God’s people. Jesus Reinforces Generosity • Luke 8:3 — Many women “were supporting [Jesus and the Twelve] out of their own means.” • Matthew 6:21 — “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” • Luke 6:38 — “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the same measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” Our Lord affirms both the practice and the heart-posture of giving. The Early Church Continues the Pattern • Acts 4:34-35 — Believers sold property, “laid [the proceeds] at the apostles’ feet,” and needs were met. • 2 Corinthians 8:1-4 — Macedonian churches “gave beyond their ability” to support others. Their generosity flowed from gratitude for the gospel, just as the Philippians had done for Paul. Apostolic Teaching on Sustaining Ministry • 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 — “Those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • Galatians 6:6 — “The one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.” • 1 Timothy 5:17-18 — “The worker is worthy of his wages.” • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 — “Sow generously, reap generously… God loves a cheerful giver.” The New Testament normalizes, even commands, ongoing material support for those who labor in the Word. Promises Attached to Faithful Giving • Philippians 4:17-19 — “Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am seeking the fruit that may be credited to your account… My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” • Malachi 3:10 (recalled) — God promises overflowing blessing for obedient givers. • Proverbs 11:24-25 — “Generosity brings prosperity; withholding leads to poverty… he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Scripture links generous support of God’s work with spiritual fruit and tangible provision. Living This Truth Today God has chosen to spread the gospel through the partnership of His people. Whether through tithes, offerings, or Spirit-prompted generosity, believers today follow the Philippians’ example when they invest their resources in ministries that proclaim Christ. As we do, we participate in eternal work and lay hold of God’s promised provision and joy. |
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