Why is it important to support missionaries "for the sake of the Name"? The Heartbeat of 3 John 1:7 “For they went out on behalf of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles.” John commends a local church for providing hospitality and financial help to traveling missionaries. Their motive? The honor of “the Name”—Jesus Himself. Who Are “They” and Why Did They Go? • “They” = gospel workers leaving home comforts to proclaim Christ where He is not yet known. • They chose not to depend on unbelievers (“the Gentiles”) so the message would remain untangled from worldly patronage. • Their entire venture rested on believers’ generosity. The Name Above Every Name • Acts 4:12: “There is no other name under heaven…by which we must be saved.” • Philippians 2:10-11: every knee will bow to this Name; supporting those who spread it aligns us with God’s eternal plan. • Reputation matters: how we treat Christ’s ambassadors signals what we really think of the Lord they serve (Matthew 10:40). Why Our Support Matters • Obedience—Romans 10:14-15 shows preachers can go only if they are “sent.” • Stewardship—we steward resources God entrusted to us (1 Corinthians 9:11). • Purity of the gospel—believers’ funding keeps missionaries free from compromising influences. • Partnership—Philippians 1:5 calls this “partnership in the gospel.” We share in the harvest. • Joy—Philippians 4:17: support results in “fruit…credited to your account.” Scriptural Echoes That Strengthen the Case • Matthew 28:19-20—The Great Commission applies until “the very end of the age.” • 2 Corinthians 8:13-14—“Your surplus will meet their need”; God designed the body to supply itself. • Hebrews 6:10—God remembers every act of support shown to His servants. What Happens When We Hold the Rope • Souls hear, believe, and call on Jesus. • Churches are planted; Scripture is translated; disciples are formed. • The watching world sees tangible proof that Christ’s love transcends borders. • The supporters themselves grow in faith, generosity, and eternal perspective. Practical Ways to Support Missionaries 1. Consistent giving—budget missionary support as deliberately as rent or groceries. 2. Strategic hospitality—open your home when they furlough; send care packages overseas. 3. Earnest prayer—pray specific, informed prayers; tell them you are praying. 4. Communication—send encouraging notes, ask for current needs, celebrate victories. 5. Advocacy—introduce them to other churches or small groups that could join the team. 6. Skilled help—offer professional expertise (accounting, tech, education) remotely when possible. The Takeaway God chose to spread the gospel through sent ones who depend on the family of faith. By supporting missionaries “for the sake of the Name,” we exalt Christ, obey Scripture, and share in eternal rewards. The opportunity stands open; let’s step into it with joy. |
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