Day 20: Partners in the Gospel
SENT: 21-DAYS OF PRAYER AND FASTING
Partners in the Gospel
Written By: Ashley Gabriel
Read Philippians 1:3-11
We were told when preparing to buy a rabbit that we should not get just one. Rabbits can become withdrawn and unhealthy when isolated, but they thrive with companionship. Scripture shows the same truth about people. From the beginning God said, It is not good for man to be alone, and created community. Even within the Godhead we see relationship and unity between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Church is therefore designed to flourish through partnership, not isolation.
Paul experienced this deeply with the church in Philippi. He planted the church and remembered them with joy because of their partnership in the gospel. The word he uses is koinonia, meaning shared life, mutual participation, and deep relational fellowship. This goes far beyond a network where churches simply exchange resources. True partnership is a joining of hearts for the advance of the gospel.
Yet insecurity can tempt leaders to lead alone. Some want to start their own ministries or movements without integration, accountability, or connection. But the Church was never meant to function as separate islands. As we plant and multiply, it is essential to recognise the strengths in every congregation and to work together. There is safety in community, humility in shared leadership, and strength in being accountable to one another. Solo ministry is neither biblical nor sustainable. Partnership is God’s design.
No single church carries the full measure of gifting needed for maturity. Christ gives apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip His people, often through the wider body. When we partner well, the Church is strengthened across regions and nations.
Paul experienced this deeply with the church in Philippi. He planted the church and remembered them with joy because of their partnership in the gospel. The word he uses is koinonia, meaning shared life, mutual participation, and deep relational fellowship. This goes far beyond a network where churches simply exchange resources. True partnership is a joining of hearts for the advance of the gospel.
Yet insecurity can tempt leaders to lead alone. Some want to start their own ministries or movements without integration, accountability, or connection. But the Church was never meant to function as separate islands. As we plant and multiply, it is essential to recognise the strengths in every congregation and to work together. There is safety in community, humility in shared leadership, and strength in being accountable to one another. Solo ministry is neither biblical nor sustainable. Partnership is God’s design.
No single church carries the full measure of gifting needed for maturity. Christ gives apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip His people, often through the wider body. When we partner well, the Church is strengthened across regions and nations.
Reflect
Am I actively partnering with my local church?
How can I contribute to unity so that we build together as one Church rather than drifting into isolated or independent ministry?
How can I contribute to unity so that we build together as one Church rather than drifting into isolated or independent ministry?
Prayer
Lord, guard us from isolation and pride. Help us walk in joyful partnership with believers locally and globally so that Your kingdom advances and Your Church is strengthened. Amen.
Posted in SENT: 21-Days of Prayer and Fasting