Daily EncouragementSample

The motive for missionary endeavour is perfectly summed up in the phrase, “for the sake of the Name.” They go out accepting a commission given by the One who bears the Name. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go . . . ” (Matt. 28:18ff). They go to answer a need. The need is implied in the Name, which means “Saviour.” Men are sinners who need a Saviour (1 Tim. 1:15). They go to announce the gospel - all the gospel is in the Name. “For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord” (2 Cor. 4:5).

The means of missionary support comes to the fore when we consider the phrase, “receiving no help from the pagans” or better, “they would accept nothing from pagans.” That would seem to be the right policy, both in New Testament times and now. The Lord’s work and his workers should be supported by the Lord’s people. However, the missionary must not take this support for granted. Even in those far-off days, there were those who stretched the hospitality of the saints. Missionaries must look to the Lord to supply their needs and do nothing which would give the impression that the gospel is not offered “free of charge” (1 Cor. 9:18).