August 26, 2020: SOAP #3919:  Jeremiah 50-51; 3John

Scripture:  3John (NIV) 1:5 Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you. 6 They have told the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God. 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. 8 We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth.

Observation:   It would not surprise me to find that the early church did not have a large group of seasoned leaders and pastors.  And so, it would not surprise me that they relied on traveling ministers.  In the above verses we read about traveling ministers being lovingly welcomed into the fellowship of believers.  John encourages them to send them on to their next ministry location “in a manner worthy of God.”  In so doing, they would be working together for the kingdom of God. 

Application:   Hospitality is a very important ministry.  Using our homes and resources to help those ministering to the body of Christ.  We may not have a place of leadership in the body of Christ, but by being hospitable, we share in that ministry.  We can enable others to their ministries.  Remember, just a “cup of cold water” earns a “reward!”  (Matthew 10:42)   

Prayer:   Lord Jesus, indeed you are my Lord.  All I have is really yours.  Help me carefully use what you intend for my use.  Help me easily release what you helped me gather for use elsewhere.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!