Grateful for Supporters of Gospel Missions

“He [Jesus] went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him.” [1]

“Bringing glad tidings broadly describes the theme of Jesus’ preaching. He brought good news to the people, news that God’s Messiah and King was present with them, announcing His kingdom.” [2]

“Certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities; Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.” [3]

“Jesus had a different attitude towards women than the religious leaders and teachers of that day. ‘The rabbis refused to teach women and generally assigned them a very inferior place.’

Mary called Magdalene had been demon possessed until Jesus freed her. Many assume that she was given over to immorality, but this isn’t said by the Biblical text. ‘There is nothing whatever in the sources to indicate this.’ [4]

Joanna, the wife of Chuza, was Herod’s steward. ‘She was the official that looked after the king’s financial interests…There could be no more trusted and important official.’ [5]

Mary and Joanna were among the first witnesses of Jesus’ resurrection. [6]

Susanna and many others provided for Him from their substance. We see the true humble nature of Jesus. He willingly made Himself dependent upon others. He didn’t have to; He could have just created all the money or food He needed. Jesus was humble enough and godly enough to receive from others.

Many of us are too proud to receive help from others. Sometimes the ability to humbly receive is a better measure of Jesus in our life than the ability to give. Giving sometimes puts us in a higher place but receiving may put us in a lower place.” [7]

“Heavenly Father, thank You for raising up supporters of the Gospel proclamation. Please help us, who preach the Gospel, to receive their support humbly and gratefully for the benefit of all involved and for Your glory! In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.”

[1] Luke 8:1
[2] Enduring Word Commentary
[3] Luke 8:2-3
[4] Enduring Word Commentary (Morris)
[5] Enduring Word Commentary (Barclay)
[6] Luke 24:10
[7] Enduring Word Commentary