Some Key Words

Acting (poieo [4160]):

to make, to give a certain quality, to qualify; to make, be the cause of, prepare, produce, provide for oneself, to lead one out, to cause one to do something, bring about something, to act rightly, do well, carry out, do unto another, make ready, perform; to make or do

Faithfully (pistos [4103]):

certain, worthy to be believed, true, just, trustworthy, observant of one's word or promise, one believing in the gospel of Christ; trustworthy in business or official duties, worthy of trust, reliable, believing, trusting in God's promises, convinced that Jesus rose from the dead, and is the Messiah; trustworthy

Accomplish (ergazomai [2038]):

to work, labor, or perform, to practice, be employed about, acquire by labor; to do work, trade, exercise, perform, commit, cause to exist, produce, earn by working; to toil, effect, be engaged in

Brethren (adelphos [80]):

a brother, one joined in a fellowship of life based on identity of origin, a community of love and life; one who shares parentage or ancestry, any man, a fellow believer, an office associate, brothers in Christ, Christians; a brother

Strangers (xenos [3581]):

a foreigner, stranger, alien, new or unheard of, a host; foreign, guest or host, entertainer

Love (agape [26]):

charity, benevolent love, doing what one deems necessary for another; brotherly love, good will; affection

Church (ekklesia [1577]):

called out, the community of the redeemed; a public gathering of citizens, the assembly of Israelites, a throng of men, Christians gathered for worship, a company of Christians - local or global, the assembly of dead Christians in heaven; a calling out, a meeting - especially of religious nature, a congregation

Send (propempo [4311]):

to send before, send forward, escort, fit one out with requisites for a journey; aid in travel

In a manner worthy of (axios [516]):

suitable, worthily; appropriately

 

 

Paraphrase

5 What is done for Christ's workers is done by faith, especially when done for workers outside one's own church. 6 Such support they will testify to in other churches.

Key Verse

6 - Those aided already witness to the aid, yet there's always room to do more.

Some Parallel Verses

5

Ac 1:15 - Peter stood among his fellow believers to speak. Gal 6:10 - we are to do good to all, but moreso to those of like faith. Ro 12:13 - We are to contribute to others' needs and be hospitable. Heb 13:2 - We are to be hospitable to strangers, for some may be angels.

6

Ac 15:3 - Paul and friends were equipped and sent on by the church. Ti 3:13 - He asks that Titus equip Zenas and Apollos for their journey. Col 1:10 - we are to walk in a manner pleasing to and worthy of God. 1Th 2:12 - This worthy walk is the point behind all preaching.

 

 

New Thoughts

How well would you equip God if He came to visit? What would you not be willing to provide to Him to help His journey when He left? This is the degree of benevolence we are called to have for His workers. When we have determined that such workers are indeed sent by God to do His work, that their doctrine is true, and their teaching sound, there ought be nothing we would not do for them that is needful. No way in which they should be sent out from us wanting for support. Does this mean we ought to shower them with riches? No. It is the work of a love that does what is seen as necessary, not the idolatrous worshipping of the worker rather than the King. Lord, in this have we at least been faithful? Have we truly moved to supply every need that we are able to supply? Have we been foolishly throwing money where it was not truly needful? I pray that You make us sure, that You guide us in what we should support as well as how. I pray that You would help us to be willing to give more than easy money, to give time and effort, an ear and a shoulder, a roof and a meal; whatever is the need, help us to be faithful to provide for Your workers.