To support a Missionary is to fund the greatest campaign in the world.
We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth. 3 John 1:8
The fierce race of the 2016 elections can be seen in the amount of money that was spent for the presidential and congressional campaigns; over 16.5 billion, with a B, dollars. That’s more than the winner wants to build a border defense along our southern border. But if you spend a lot of money, will anyone change their minds because of it? According to an article from 2018, Rick Perry’s 2006 re-election campaign for Texas governor, advertising did produce a pro-Perry response in the markets that received ads. But it fizzled fast. Within a week after ads stopped running, it was like no one had ever seen them. So what makes the difference? Core values!
With all of the Missionaries calling, sending emails, and information packets, who should I support? In 3 John vss. 6-8, we see three core values in who we should support going into Missions.
1. Those who are already serving. The Apostle John told Gaius in so many words, I have seen your work for the Lord and I want to support you in it.
2. Those who are not seeking vain glory. John told Gaius he went out for “His name’s sake”. Whose name? —Jesus’! Gaius wasn’t out for fame and fortune, he went out for Jesus!
3. Those willing to yoke up with us for the cause of Christ. Being like-minded goes deeper than just going to church;
It involves Foundational Truth— The Word of God.
It involves Methodology— How will you get the Gospel out?
It involves Faithfulness— We not only want to see Missionaries start well but we want to see them run and finish well.