Tuesday, November 28

Thanks to all the Gaiuses

Scripture: 3 John

3 John 8 Therefore we ought to support such people, so that we become coworkers in cooperation with the truth.

Observation

John wrote to his friend Gaius, commending him for supporting traveling missionaries. Note three things about this support.

First, it is to be done “in a manner worthy of God” (v. 6). I understand this to mean that it should be generous and honoring, for that is how God treats us. God’s attitude is never “how little can I get away with?”; it is always “how much can I do?” 

Second, it is to be done because they depend entirely upon Christians, “accepting nothing from unbelievers” (v. 7). This is why I direct almost all my giving to Christian causes that advance the gospel—only Christians support them. Other good (but not specifically Christian) causes are supported by everyone, but only Christians give to advance the gospel. If we don’t do it, who will?

Third, when we do this, we are co-workers with the truth. While most of us won’t be itinerant missionaries (or other full time ministry positions), we can partner to get the work done. We can be co-workers by our generosity and support, and so share in the work and the results. If you give at Life Center, you should feel some personal gratification every time someone says yes to Jesus or is baptized. You were a co-worker in that! It won’t happen without your support.

Application

I’ve already hinted at the applications above.

First, be generous and honoring in your giving. Give in a manner worthy of God. 

Second, give first and foremost to advance the gospel. Unbelievers aren’t going to do it—it’s up to us to support Christian ministry.

Third, rejoice in the essential part you play by being a co-worker. The work couldn’t be done without you and your support!

Prayer: Lord, thank you for all the Gaiuses who have been co-workers with me for all these years. I couldn’t do what I do (and have done) without them as my full partners. Bless them! And I want to be a co-worker with others as well. Show me where You want me to invest in gospel work. 

More: Job 32-33, Romans 4