“We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellow helpers to the truth” (3 Jn. 1:8 - KJV). John was overjoyed to hear that Gaius was “walking in truth” (3 Jn. 3-4). Often times, Gospel preachers, get to know Christians in other congregations and gain many friendships through Gospel Meetings and other evangelistic efforts. Gaius was known for showing hospitality to traveling evangelists (3 Jn. 5-8).

Oh, how I remember the days when Gospel preachers stayed in our home during the week of Gospel Meetings. I would love to sit around the kitchen table after a night of Gospel Meetings and hear the “preacher stories” and of course the jokes. It was indeed a special treat and I feel fortunate to have experienced that.

The fact of the matter, is that evangelists need spiritual encouragement. Our support of them demonstrates our faithfulness to the teachings of Christ and the Apostles. We need to hold up the hands of Godly men who devote their lives to preaching and teaching the Gospel.

Some translations use the phrase “welcome such” which its root word has the meaning of “keep welcoming such, as a regular practice in life” (Commentary by Guy N. Woods). Our hospitality and support of them should not be temporary in nature. When we support them and their work; we become “fellow helpers” or “co-workers” in the promoting of the Gospel. Contrast that statement in verse eight to 2 John 9-11 where our support of false teaching makes us share in their evil deeds! Likewise, when we support teachers of the Gospel, we have fellowship in their work (Phil. 1:3-5).

While we may not preach every Sunday, we can invite someone to church. We can give someone a tract. We can refer someone to our website. We can support our local evangelist. Are you a fellow helper for the truth?