Give Them the Whole

... since they set out for the sake of the name, accepting nothing from pagans. - 3 John 7

In West African culture, before a person is allowed to leave the home of someone they have been visiting, the visitor must "ask for the road." Sometimes, the person being visited will respond, "I give you the half," meaning that he or she looks forward to your speedy return.

John wrote that some Christians in his day had "set out for the sake of the name (of Christ)" and they had done so without the help of pagans (unbelievers). Apparently, John did not think that a Christian traveller should ask for help from anyone other than a member of the family of God.

I'm not sure I understand all of this (in context, I believe he is dealing with the issues of "darkness" fellowshipping with the "light"), but we certainly need to help those who serve God and "give them the road." They are trusting in the Body of Christ and shouldn't need to ask anyone else. When someone in the "family" is in need, don't just give them the half. Give them the "whole."

Never reach out your hand unless you're willing to extend an arm. - Elizabeth Fuller