Both are Essential! (3 John 8)

Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.

THE STUDY:

John depicts hospitality as an expected expression of generous support of missionaries. This is clear from his insertion of the emphatic pronoun “we.” His intent is clear: we ought to support people like these. Hospitality would include lodging, food, and money for the future travel of such missionaries.

When people like Gaius and those with him supported such men, the churches involved share their ministries: we may be fellow workers for the truth. Some Christians were planting the gospel in new geographical soil and among diverse people groups. Others provided a support system, the material means enabling traveling evangelists and missionaries to be free to devote more time to preaching and teaching.^[1]

Unlike the false teachers of 2 John 11, who deny “the Name” and therefore should be refused hospitality, these men are faithful to “the Name” and deserve assistance. As we support such persons, “we become coworkers in the truth.” We may not physically go where they go, but when we support them, we go with them anyway. We work together, as one, for the truth. Some give support and some are sent. Both are essential.^[2]

WHAT WE CAN WALK AWAY WITH ….

• We walk away this morning with the understanding that there is no “I” in TEAM! As a team member for the Lord we all have a part to play. For some, that may be giving support but for others it may call for them to be sent. Whatever the case may be, all parts are essential when it comes to Kingdom building.   

CONCLUSION:

  Many years ago I was introduced to a song that was titled, “Thank You!” The third verse is the one that impacted me the most:

One by one they came
Far as your eyes could see
Each life somehow touched
By your generosity
Little things that you had done
Sacrifices you made
They were unnoticed on the earth
In heaven now proclaimed

This morning I pray that you realize you are valuable to building the kingdom of God. You may not be a preacher or an evangelist, but you can be that team player who supports them through encouragement, prayer, and/or finances. Don’t let Satan cause you to think you can’t make a difference. For each life you touch on Earth will be revealed in heaven.  

Blessings my friends

Pastor Rod

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^[1] Williamson, R. (2010). 1, 2, & 3 John: A Commentary in the Wesleyan Tradition. New Beacon Bible Commentary (212). Kansas City, MO: Beacon Hill Press.

^[2] Akin, D. L. (2001). Vol. 38: 1, 2, 3 John (electronic ed.). Logos Library System; The New American Commentary (245). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.