We’ve been going through Paul’s letter to the Philippian church. It’s a letter of gratefulness to a church that has supported him throughout his ministry. Now it’s coming to a close.
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need.
Philippians 4:14-16 NIV
This was a church of faithful support. We need to understand the importance of financially supporting the Gospel. When we give, there’s a sharing of the burden. We’re actually participating with the ministry we’re supporting.
Of course, that means that we need to know who we’re giving to. If they’re not a true minister of the Gospel, then we receive the correction along with them. It’s like the book of Jonah. Jonah was walking in disobedience, but everyone in the boat felt the storm.
In the same way, if the one we support does a good work for God’s kingdom, we receive a reward along with them. Your offering unites you with the ones receiving it.
There’s another truth here that few understand. Paul calls it the matter of giving and receiving. Actually, the Greek word, logos is used there. It should be translated as the Word of giving and receiving.
There’s a scriptural principal of giving and receiving. Unfortunately, in this generation, much of our focus is only on receiving. What can I get from my walk with God?
What we have to come to grips with is the fact that giving and receiving go hand in hand. If I’m not a giver, then I shouldn’t expect to receive very much. We need to learn to live with an “open hand”.
We can’t use the excuse that “I don’t have enough to give”. That’s not ever the case. These Philippian believers are a prime example of this.
And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own…
2 Corinthians 8:1-3 NIV
Here we see two phrases that don’t logically go together. Except that God is at work in them. Extreme poverty and rich generosity don’t sound like they describe the same people. But in Christ, as we follow the Word of giving and receiving, abundance is poured out.
Paul continues to commend this church in his closing.
Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:17-19 NIV
When we give, God sees it as a fragrant, acceptable sacrifice. Along is that is a much-misunderstood promise. God will meet our needs according to His riches in Christ. I’ve heard that quoted out of context so many times.
You need to realize that this promise is not for everyone. You don’t get it simply because you’re a Christian. This is specifically made to a group of Christians who were faithfully supporting the missionary work of Paul the apostle. If you’re not supporting the Gospel, then this promise is not for you.
Paul ends his epistle with a blessing.
To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me send greetings. All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
Philippians 4:20-23 NIV
Question: How well do you support Gospel missionaries?
© 2023 Nick Zaccardi
The Spirit and the Word 