9 “Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, 10 or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support. 11 And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city. 12 As you enter the house, give it your greeting. 13 If the house is worthy, give it your blessing of peace. But if it is not worthy, take back your blessing of peace.”

The instructions Jesus gave the disciples included financial arrangements for their short-term trip: they were not to take along provisions. Their needs would be supplied by the people to whom they were sent—this was implied in the hospitality when one stayed in another’s home.

A number of observations of this passage are in order. First, their support was not a right, but simply a promise. As those who “work” in the Lord’s service, their needs would be met by those to whom they ministered. That a person in fulltime ministry should be supported in his ministry is well established in Scripture (Luke 10:7). But the Lord here focuses not on their right to support, but simply that their work was worthy of support. Even Paul makes the point of foregoing his “right” to support, so that the gospel would not be hindered (1 Cor 9:6-11). Paul applied to himself what he taught others, namely that God would supply all his need according to His riches in glory (Phil 4:19). This is a far cry from the modern day practice of pastors negotiating a salary or missionaries asking for support. Christ and Paul never appealed for financial support, yet God met their needs as appropriate. (See Phil 4:10-20 for Paul’s attitude about his financial support in ministry).

Second, attention should be given to those people who are “worthy” of the message. In the context of Jesus’ ministry this refers to those open to the message. They would naturally invite the messengers (i.e. the disciples in this case) into their homes. In the ancient Near East, hospitality was highly regarded and practiced as a way of accepting strangers and their cause. That is why Christians are instructed in the Word not to invite false teachers into our homes (3 John 1:9-10) in support of their cause.

Third, disciples should spread the Word broadly, but focus on those who demonstrate open hearts. Go where the audience is receptive.

Lord, as I serve You sacrificially, direct me to those with hearts open to Your message of salvation. This is what really matters.