“Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only” (Philippians 4:15 NKJV). The church in Philippi was praiseworthy for their participation in spreading the Gospel of Christ. Paul earlier commended them “for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now” (1:5). From the time when the church was established at Philippi to when Paul penned this letter, Philippian Christians labored on behalf of the Gospel. They knew the part they had to play if their part of the world was to hear the message of salvation. The Christians at Philippi actively participated in evangelism.
Not only did they have a concern for souls in their region, but they also shared Paul’s concern for souls everywhere. Their contribution to the Gospel was not limited to Philippi, but through Paul, those Christians partnered with the apostle for wherever else the Gospel could go through him. In a very real sense, Paul’s labor in Christ was also their labor. By supporting him financially in his mission work, they were partners with Paul in the proclamation of the good news. While perhaps they were unable to go everywhere Paul went, they provided for his physical needs, allowing him to freely preach the Gospel. They shared with him in his work.
We can and should be involved in the work of spreading the Gospel, in much the same way as the Philippian Christians did. Certainly, we can tell others about salvation in Christ – friends, neighbors and others willing to listen. We must be concerned about souls where we live and worship! Similarly, by supporting other efforts, we can share in the work of taking the Gospel to other places. We share in spreading the Gospel in many places congregationally (and individually through freewill contributions) by providing financial assistance to missionaries, enabling them to labor in the Gospel. To share in these works is a wonderful blessing.
However, while our monetary support of such works is needed, we can’t pay off our responsibility for evangelism locally. Is there someone who could be blessed by hearing the Gospel during Gospel meetings or weekly Bible classes and worship? The Word of God is faithfully and kindly proclaimed in a way that can be clearly understood. The church building provides a comfortable environment to listen to the message of salvation. Everything is ready for them on any of the aforementioned occasions. A personal invitation could open doors for eternity. If people aren’t invited, how will they know to come? How will they know you care?
Are you personally committed – with your time, talents, energy and finances – to participating in the work of the Gospel here and abroad? There is no greater work than that of saving souls. “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” (Romans 10:14). The opportunity is ever present. May we willingly and gladly participate in spreading the Gospel good news!
