St. Augustine writes about the selflessness of St. Paul. In his letter to the believers in Philippi, he was grateful for the gifts he received but was glad about the fruit they gained. “Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.” (Philippians 4:17) It is not about Paul’s and believers’ earthly transaction, but eternal dividends, fruits, and impact are important.
Earthly needs: The gifts the believers in Philippi sent for Paul in Roman prison, when he was in prison were empathetic and generous help. As Paul was getting old, and fragile because of being in prison for five years in Caesarea, and later a couple of years in Rome. Any help will be of some physical and emotional comfort to him.
Dignity to receive: As a tentmaker, Paul would have been happy to earn for himself, but prison term, age, and lack of opportunity made him dependent on others. Paul received from the Christian believers with dignity and joy. He did not resent that God had brought him down to such a lowly position and at the mercy of others. He understood God’s Sovereign Rule and kingdom principle of helping one another. As he was dignified to give others self-support in mission, he was also dignified in receiving support from others.
Eternal rewards: Paul elevated the earthly transaction to the eternal sphere. He reminded the believers, not to be moved by human sympathy to help but to be aware of the eternal rewards or credits they would receive. By helping Paul, a servant in the Kingdom, they gain eternal rewards from the Kingdom.
Right giving: The believers from the city of Philippi should have the right motive to give. Though they were helping the one who came to their city and planted the church there, they were investing in the cause of the Kingdom. Instead of focusing on the ‘feel good’ factor, or expecting earthly rewards as prosperity preachers promise; they should consider God’s work, His direction, His Glory, and His eternal purpose.
Do I realize the eternal dynamics of giving?