Partners in the Gospel

“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. I always pray for you, and I make my requests with a heart full of joy because you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now.” – Philippians 1:3-5 NLT

Paul realized that spreading the Gospel was a team effort. He may have attracted attention because of his visibility. Yet he knew that this ministry would not have been possible without the partnership of people like the Philippian Christians.

Writing from his Roman prison, Paul recalled with joy the fact that these Philippians had been “my partners in spreading the Good News.” The word here translated “partners” is koinonia, a word that embodies working together.

How did they participate in this partnership? One important way was through their financial gifts. These made it possible for Paul to take the Gospel throughout the world. He wrote them how “even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs.”

This required personal sacrifices, but their gift was “an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” Because of their sacrifices, Paul stressed that God would bless them. In fact, they could be sure that He would supply all their needs (Philippians 4:16-19).

This same principle is true today. The burden of spreading the Gospel should be shared by the entire Body of Christ. When we as individuals give to a ministry, we are partners in that ministry. We share in the fellowship of God’s call. We may not attract attention, but without the sacrificial gifts of individual Christians, the work of ministry could not take place.

Ask God to help you know how you can be a partner in the Gospel. You may be called to “go,” or just to “give.” But always focus on serving God with your life. As He directs you, learn to give sacrificially unto Him, trusting Him to meet all your needs.

Prayer: Father, I commit my time, talent, and treasure to You. Use me to advance Your Kingdom that others might be saved. In Jesus’ name. Amen.