I have coveted no man’s silver,or gold, or apparel. Acts 20:33
In 1829, a British dentist, Anthony Norris Groves, set out from England for Baghdad and later for India to preach the Gospel. Dr. Groves was one of the early leaders among a small group of Christians who met in the Plymouth area according to principles that they found in the Word of God concerning God’s Assembly. As he set forth on his missionary journey, Dr. Groves determined to follow New Testament practice and doctrine for his ministry. His pioneering venture was, simply put, living by faith! He set forth without any salary or solicitation of funding support, declaring, ‘God can provide for my needs’. And He did. Christians had not seen such practice for centuries. Would faith principles work? Could God provide for His servants?
George Mueller and many other preachers caught the vision as initiated by Dr. Groves, served God in faith and did exploits without relying on organized support or the solicitation of men. Missionary work along these faith lines spread like wild fire and girdled the globe. These heroes of the faith were following the principles of the early missionaries such as Paul, with the other Apostles, who walked such a pathway of faith, trusting God to supply. Paul was not afraid to work if necessary to be an example or to provide for need — ‘these hands have ministered unto my necessities and to them that were with me’ (Acts 20:34). Various Assemblies voluntarily sent funds to help him (Phil. 4:15).
But today such men and faith principles are being belittled and put down as not being efficient. The positive example of the New Testament is put aside as outmoded. In the 21st century with its computers, photography and mailing lists, so-called Christian organizations rely heavily on the fact that people respond to solicitation. This vital spiritual heritage of living and serving by faith is also in danger of being jettisoned by some that call themselves assemblies. Salaries are being discussed; solicitation is being practiced; workers’ needs are advertised. The erosion of the faith principle is well advanced in some circles.
To serve the Lord along faith lines is not just an interesting option for the Church. If Christians take seriously the teaching and example of Jesus and His apostles, it is imperative. And a practical outworking sharpens the cutting edge of spiritual life in both the Lord’s servants and His Assemblies. The principle of faith for financial support of Christian service is as vital to the Assemblies as the truth of baptism or the Lord’s supper. -Jim MacIntosh