These verses from the third epistle of John highlight the commendable actions of certain individuals who went out for the sake of the Name (referring to the name of Christ) and encourages the recipients of the letter to support such workers for the truth.
- Going Out for the Sake of the Name
The phrase "for the sake of the Name" signifies a mission or journey undertaken for the cause of Christ:
Selfless Mission: Those mentioned in the passage embarked on a mission without seeking personal gain from the Gentiles. Their motivation was centered on advancing the name and cause of Christ.
Dependence on God: By "taking nothing from the Gentiles," these workers demonstrated a reliance on God for their provision. Their focus was on the spiritual impact of their mission rather than material gain.
- Call to Receive Such Workers
John urges the recipients of the letter to embrace and support these workers:
Hospitality and Support: The call to "receive such" implies extending hospitality and practical support to those engaged in the work of spreading the Gospel. This support is not only a gesture of kindness but a recognition of their vital role.
Fellow Workers for the Truth: John emphasizes the shared responsibility of all believers to be "fellow workers for the truth." By supporting those who go out for the sake of the Name, believers actively participate in the advancement of the Gospel.
Implications for Contemporary Believers
Recognition of Gospel Workers: The passage encourages believers to recognize and support those engaged in full-time ministry or missions. This recognition extends beyond appreciation to practical support, acknowledging the importance of their role.
Financial and Practical Support: The emphasis on not taking anything from the Gentiles suggests that the support for Gospel workers should come from within the community of believers. This support can include financial assistance, prayers, and other practical forms of help.
Unity in Advancing Truth: The concept of being "fellow workers for the truth" underscores the unity of believers in the common cause of spreading the Gospel. It emphasizes the collective responsibility of the church in supporting and participating in the mission of proclaiming the truth of Christ.
Supporting traveling preachers follows the pattern Jesus set when he sent out the twelve: "Freely you received, so freely give," for "the laborer is worthy of his food" (Matthew 10:8-10); in Luke he says, "the laborer is worthy of his wages" (Luke 10:7). Paul taught that "the Lord ordained that those who proclaim the Good News should live from the Good News," even though he himself chose not to use this right (1 Corinthians 9:14-15). The phrase "for the sake of the Name" recalls the apostles in Jerusalem, who left the council "rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for Jesus’ name" (Acts 5:41). By taking nothing from the Gentiles, the missionaries in 3 John made sure that no one could accuse them of preaching for profit.
Cross-References:
Philippians 4:17: "Not that I seek for the gift, but I seek for the fruit that increases to your account." In his letter to the Philippians, Paul acknowledges the financial support received from the believers, emphasizing the spiritual significance of their generosity.
1 Corinthians 3:9: "For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s farming, God’s building." This verse from Paul's letter to the Corinthians reinforces the idea of believers being fellow workers in God's mission.
Conclusion: 3 John 1:7-8 provides a glimpse into the commendable actions of certain individuals who dedicated themselves to the mission of Christ. The passage encourages believers to recognize, receive, and actively support those engaged in similar work, highlighting the shared responsibility of being fellow workers for the truth. As contemporary readers engage with this passage, it prompts reflection on the ways they can contribute to the support and advancement of the Gospel.
See also: vs 5
3 John 1:7-8. For the sake of the Name they went out, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We therefore ought to receive such, that we may be fellow workers for the truth.