Supporting Gospel Workers
Though some gospel workers have been able to find creative ways to work and minister, for generations most missionaries have needed to raise support for their work. Many find great joy in giving to God’s workers. But others question whether or not such support should be given.
A Biblical Pattern
How was Jesus supported for his ministry? Following the example of the Levites, Jesus was able to travel to preach and heal because of the generosity of people in Israel (Luke 8:1-3). He taught his apostles to live and serve the same way, helping them learn to depend on God (Luke 9:1-6; 10:1-9).
Wasn’t Paul a tent-maker? Some people might say, “Why not be a tent-maker like Paul instead of raising support?” Paul was a tent-maker while he spread the gospel and planted churches. But this was never his first or best practice. In fact, Paul only lived as a tent-maker a few times for specific reasons because it limited his ministry. While working in Corinth, Paul only preached on the Sabbath. Once support came, he began preaching everyday (Acts 18:1-5). Paul lived on the support of God’s people because he believed it was commanded by the Lord (1 Cor 9:13-14).
A True Partnership
Those that give to support gospel workers because partners with them in the work (Phil 1:3-4). This is a partnership that benefits those that give with spiritual blessings and maturity (Phil 4:16-18) as well as the people to whom the worker is sent. Thus, the one who is sent is able to focus on the gospel work and those that give are able to display the grace of Christ at work in their lives (2 Cor 1:15-16). Even those who have very little can give generously (2 Cor 8:1-5).
How You Can Support Our Work
Giving to our ministry with Training Leaders International is easy. It begins with prayer. This is most important way anyone can support our ministry. Second, you can give financially. We live on the generous giving of supporters. You can join our support team by going to the TLI website and set up a one-time or recurring gift.
MAGNIFY CHRIST 