Zambia Hunt

This is from a Bible study we use at Kitwe Church, as we challenge and orient our church family to think biblically and generously toward supporting world missions.s 

The Bible presents a clear and compelling vision for how Christians should participate in supporting missionary work through financial giving. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul highlights how planned giving produces spiritual fruit and honors God. The Philippian church actively sought opportunities to support Paul’s ministry, demonstrating that intentional giving should be part of our Christian walk. Paul’s response teaches us about the proper attitude toward missions giving on both sides: while missionaries should learn contentment with God’s provision, churches should view giving as a meaningful partnership in ministry work. Importantly, Paul describes these gifts as “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God,” elevating missions giving to an act of worship.

This understanding is further reinforced in 3 John 5-8, where the apostle John exhorts the church regarding missions giving. He frames such giving as an expression of love and emphasizes that it directly honors God. John makes a powerful statement about the significance of supporting missionaries when he writes that by giving, we “become fellow workers for the truth.” This partnership perspective transforms how we view our role in missions—even if we can’t go ourselves, we can actively participate through our giving. It’s important to note that missions giving stands apart from regular church giving. While supporting our local church ministries is vital, missions giving represents an additional commitment to extending God’s kingdom globally.

As we consider these biblical principles, we must examine our own hearts regarding missions giving. Do we view it as a burden, or do we see it as the privilege and act of worship that Scripture describes? The early church’s example challenges us to embrace missions giving with joy and intentionality. Through faithful missions giving, we join hands with missionaries across the globe, becoming part of God’s plan to reach all nations with the gospel of Jesus Christ. In doing so, we not only support kingdom work but also participate in an act of worship that brings glory to God and advances His mission in the world.

Here is a downloadable Bible study for your own personal reflection, or to use in group study.