We Ought to Support

Shortly before He ascended into heaven, the Lord Jesus revealed that though He had accomplished redemption, the work of His people was not yet finished. Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:18–20) remains in force until He returns in glory.

When we think of the Great Commission, the work of missionaries and evangelists usually comes to mind. This is because we often believe that those of us who are not engaged in full-time evangelistic work cannot play an important role in fulfilling Jesus’ command. Today’s passage shows us this is manifestly not the case.

Having commended Gaius for walking in the truth in all areas of his life, John takes the opportunity to commend Gaius for a specific instance of practicing true Christianity. Gaius has been making efforts on behalf of those who “have gone out for the sake of the name,” and John encourages him to continue doing so (3 John 5–7). His efforts to support the missionary enterprise of the church are a sign of his faithfulness and love, and John encourages him to continue providing for teachers and missionaries.

We learn several things from these verses. First, it is praiseworthy when we provide hospitality to those on the front lines of ministry, even if they are strangers to us (v. 5). Those who share the orthodox faith deserve our support even if they are not well-known to us.

In Gaius’ case, support for missionaries would have included giving them a place to stay, providing money for food and other necessities, and generally helping to ease their travel. Moreover, John tells him to continue caring for them in a “manner worthy of God” (v. 6). Though we are to be wary of those who would take advantage of us, it is not necessary for full-time ministers to live like paupers. The church should be generous with its support.

Finally, 3 John 8 states that “we” ought to do likewise. Even those of us who cannot go overseas or work in the church full-time can obey the Great Commission by providing financial and prayer support for those in full-time ministry. In doing so we become “fellow workers for the truth” and so fulfill Jesus’ mission for the church.