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The Apostle Paul’s relationship with the church at Philippi exemplifies the importance of connecting church members to missionaries. As we explore Philippians 4:15-17 (KJV), we’ll uncover the significance of this connection and the benefits it brings to the church and the ministry of the Gospel.

I. Building a Partnership in the Gospel (Philippians 4:15) “Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.”

• Paul highlights the unique partnership he shared with the Philippians in advancing the Gospel.
• Connecting church members to missionaries allows for mutual support and encouragement in the work of the ministry.

II. Providing Financial Support (Philippians 4:16) “For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.”

• The Philippians regularly supported Paul’s missionary work, even when he was in Thessalonica.
• Financial assistance enables missionaries to focus on their ministry and meet their needs, strengthening their impact.

III. The Spiritual Fruit of Giving (Philippians 4:17) “Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.”

• Paul’s motivation was not personal gain but the spiritual fruit that comes from giving generously.
• When church members support missionaries, they share in the spiritual rewards of their work, fostering growth and unity in the congregation.

IV. Growing in Faith and Love (2 Corinthians 8:1-4) “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; how that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.”

• Supporting missionaries can strengthen the faith and love of the congregation as they see the impact of their generosity.
• The Macedonian churches are an example of how sacrificial giving can result in spiritual growth and greater unity.

V. Expanding the Reach of the Gospel (Matthew 28:19-20) “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

• Supporting missionaries is an essential part of fulfilling the Great Commission to reach the world with the Gospel.
• Connecting church members to missionaries expands the global impact of the church, contributing to the advancement of God’s Kingdom.

Conclusion: As we follow the example set by the Philippians in their relationship with Paul, we can see the importance of connecting our church members to missionaries. This partnership fosters spiritual growth, unity, and an expanding reach for the Gospel, blessing both the church and the missionary in their shared mission.