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Support of workers - 3 John 8
Support of workers - 3 John 8
John writes: “Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may be fellow workers with the truth” (3 John 1:8)
Such support entails:
to assist in supplying what may be needed—‘to help.’ Louw Nida comment on the word: “ἀντιλαμβάνομαιa: πάντα ὑπέδειξα ὑμῖν ὅτι οὕτως κοπιῶντας δεῖ ἀντιλαμβάνεσθαι τῶν ἀσθενούντων ‘I have shown you in all things that by working hard in this way we must help the weak’ Ac 20:35. As in the case of so many words with the meaning of ‘help,’ it may be necessary in some instances to use an equivalent phrase, for example, ‘to supply people with what they need’ or ‘to give to people what is necessary’ or ‘… what they should have.’ “
Such was done individually but also collectively.
The church at Philippi sent once and again – Phil. 4:16
Paul received such support from other churches also - 2 Cor. 11:8-9
Such support involved some sort of collection and sending by these churches. Yet, at the bottom of all of this is the sharing by the individual of what he has been blessed with. There is a distributive action involved in such collectivity. You must take the responsibility for your part in this.
Such supporting makes US fellow workers with the truth.
· Attitude – not ‘giving to the church’ but sharing from my resources so that these may give full attention to proclaiming the truth.
· As a preacher, it also helps to realize that such support comes from our brethren who would give of their own to allow us the privilege of doing this work.
As you purpose your sharing with brethren this week, think of how this works. Do you know these men that you are supporting? Can you encourage them with personal letters and encouragement? Can you pray for them – each, individually?
Hugh DeLong
