Renew, Refresh and Replenish

Renew, Refresh and Replenish (3 John)

The truth that John speaks of applies to this particular church the thought is narrowed down to the kingdom minded truth of a body of believers that was being used by God to rejoice the heart of the servants of God:

“Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers, who have borne witness of your love before the church. If you send the forward on their journey in a manner worthy of God, you will do well, because they went forth for His name’s sake, taking nothing from the Gentiles. We, therefore, ought to receive such, that we may become fellow workers for the truth.” (3 John 1:5-8)

• Renewed in mind (equipped in the work)
• Refreshed in spirit (encouraged for the work)
• Replenished with resources (enriched to continue the work)

I love what John shared with the brethren in 3 John 1:5-8. He affirmed and assured them of their actions of Kingdom-minded hospitality was fitting and worthy of God. The church found room in their hearts and lives to advance the kingdom by showing hospitality to the brethren when they:

1. Supported the message worthy of God.
2. Supported the messengers worthy of God.
3. Supported the mission worthy of God.

These three acts of service will always be involved in the work and witness of graced hospitality.

We have a little saying to help remind us of these principles. Live to bless, not impress! We want our lives and nest to bless people more than impress them. Not everyone has the gift of hospitality...but every believer has been given grace to be hospitable that we may renew, refresh and replenish the servants of God on mission for Jesus.