Tag: 1 John

Third John is a small book. In fact, it is the shortest book in the New Testament. As I was reading through this small book recently I read the apostle John’s comments concerning those who were working and supporting the work in the early church. In verse eight, John wrote, “Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.” John reminds Gaius of the responsibility that Christians have in helping the work in the kingdom. He says it is something “we ought” to do. This verse speaks of an obligation to the kingdom’s work.

Another interesting observation from that verse is that when we support the work of the kingdom, we become “fellow workers” with others who are working. This same word is used thirteen times in the New Testament. An interesting use of the word is found in 1 Thessalonians 3:2 which reads, “and we sent Timothy, our brother and God’s co-worker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith.” The word is used here to describe Timothy as a “co- worker” of God. When Timothy was a worker in the kingdom, not only was he a “fellow worker” with Paul, but he was “God’s co-worker.”

As I consider 3 John 8, and 1 Thessalonians 3:2, I am reminded of why it is such a blessing to support Agape Villages. When we support a work in the kingdom such as this, we are: 1) fellow workers with other Christians, and 2) co-workers with God! What an amazing thought that I can be a co-worker with God. What an honor it surely is for each of us to be able to say that we are working alongside God in His kingdom, for His glory. Amen!