Supporting Kingdom Work · Lydia

"On the Sabbath day, we went outside the city gate to the bank of the [Gangites] river, where we thought there would be a place of prayer, and we sat down and began speaking to the women who had gathered there. A woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a dealer in purple fabrics who was [already] a worshiper of God, listened to us; and the Lord opened her heart to respond to the things said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she invited us to her home, saying, 'If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house.' And she persuaded us."

— Acts 16:13-15 AMP

In the life of a Christian, few callings resonate as deeply as the commitment to support the work of God's Kingdom. This noble task extends beyond mere participation; it involves actively contributing to the spread of the Gospel and the strengthening of faith among believers. Lydia, a merchant from Thyatira living in Philippi, is an inspiring biblical example of this dedication, exemplifying the diverse ways we can support God's work.

Lydia, known as the first recorded European convert to Christianity, was already a worshiper of God before encountering the Apostle Paul. When Paul arrived in Philippi, the Lord opened her heart to heed Paul’s message, leading to her baptism and that of her household. Lydia's immediate response was to offer hospitality to Paul and his companions, using her resources to support the emerging Christian community.

Lydia's story beautifully illustrates that Kingdom work begins with a heart open to God's message, essentially through prayer. Prayer is the powerhouse of all ministry efforts. It includes regular intercession for missionaries, leaders, and ministries, as well as praying for the hearts of those who have yet to encounter Christ, as urged in Ephesians 6:18: "praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints."

Service is another tangible expression of faith, just as Lydia used her home and resources to aid Paul and his ministry. Every act of service, whether in local church settings or broader community outreach, contributes to the larger tapestry of God’s work, reflecting our worship and spreading His love. This aligns with Romans 12:1, where Paul appeals to us to "present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."

Lydia’s role as a merchant who dealt in purple cloth—a symbol of wealth—reminds us of the importance of financial support in Kingdom work. Her generosity helped the early Christian mission thrive in Philippi, highlighting how financial giving fuels the mission and expands the Church's reach. As Paul advises, "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Supporting Kingdom work also involves education and discipleship efforts. Just as Lydia likely grew in her faith and nurtured her household's faith, modern believers are called to invest in the discipleship of others, helping them understand and live out biblical truths. By doing this, we fulfil the Great Commission as we disciple all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

Advocating for Christian values and raising awareness about missions are integral to supporting Kingdom work. Engaging in conversations about faith, defending Gospel principles, and enlightening others about global missions continues the work that pioneers like Lydia supported. As 1 Peter 3:15 urges, we must make a defense to anyone who asks us for a reason for our hope.

Supporting Kingdom work encompasses prayer, godly living, service, financial support, education, and advocacy. It requires a commitment not only to meeting needs but also to actively participating in God’s redemptive plan for the world. Every prayer, act of service, and financial contribution serves the greater purpose of glorifying God and expanding His Kingdom on Earth.