Read 3 John 5–8
Questions from the Scripture text: What does John call Gaius in 3 John 5? For whom does he say he has done things? In what way has he acted when he did this? What have these brethren and strangers done in response (3 John 6)? Before whom have they borne this witness? What is he to do now with the brethren that have come from John? In a manner worthy of Whom? Why have they gone forth (3 John 7)? From whom have they received nothing? Who, then, ought to receive them (3 John 8)? What do those who receive them become?
Why should we help ministers and missionaries? 3 John 5–8 looks forward to the second serial reading in morning public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these four verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that funding the work of missionaries and ministers is an act of love to which we are called by God.
Beloved. For the second time, John calls Gaius “beloved.” Although the apostle frequently uses this word with believers generally, it strikes as more intimate/personal when addressing just one man.
Who has loved. Gaius has a track record of loving others, so much so that visitors to the church where John is has borne witness of that love before the church (3 John 6a). John identifies faith as the source of this love (3 John 5, cf. Galatians 5:6). It is from faith that he has done works for brothers and strangers.
And is called to love. Now, John sends these brothers back to Gaius on their way to more ministry. And John is asking that Gaius sponsor them not merely from generosity for brothers but as giving back to God (3 John 6b). Those whom John is sending are doing the same thing themselves, not serving for the sake of money but for the sake of God’s Name (3 John 7b).
Gaius has an opportunity to support those sent by the apostle, for the work of the Lord, in the Name of the Lord. It is an opportunity to become a fellow-worker with them as they preach the truth (3 John 8, cf. Romans 15:14; Philippians 4:14–17). Many who are not themselves sent by God may yet take opportunity, through giving, to become fellow workers with them. Loving in this way is not only an expression of personal godliness but a calling.
Who has shown you generosity for the sake of God? To whom have you shown this generosity? Whose ministries have you participated in by giving? What part has love had in this giving?
Sample prayer: Father, thank You for granting us the opportunity to love Your Name, Your people, and Your work. Forgive us for cold-hearted indifference, stinginess, selfishness, and every other reason we would refrain from supporting the gospel ministry, and restore us to our first love, we as through Christ, AMEN!
Suggested songs: ARP22D “All Ends of Earth Will Turn to Him” or TPH425 “How Sweet and Awesome Is the Place”
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