Support-raising is more than just a financial transaction; it’s a biblical partnership in the gospel mission. Paul’s relationship with the Philippians exemplifies koinonia—a deep fellowship and shared participation in God’s work.
Support-raising is often seen as a necessary step to reach an end goal, but in reality, it is a ministry in and of itself. The Apostle Paul understood this, viewing those who supported him not just as donors, but as active partners in the gospel mission. This concept is beautifully woven throughout Paul’s letter to the Philippians, emphasizing themes of partnership, fellowship, and shared work in the gospel. This biblical approach to support-raising extends far beyond mere fundraising and understanding this distinction can fundamentally reshape how we approach support-raising in ministry.
The Concept of Fundraising
Fundraising, by definition, is the organized activity of raising funds for a specific cause. It is typically viewed as a transactional act—focused solely on raising a set amount of money to meet a particular need. The relationships that result from fundraising tend to be minimal in terms of continued relational investment. It is often centered around the question, "What can you do for me?"
Fundraising itself is not inherently bad; it is an essential tool for supporting various causes and missions. However, when too much emphasis is placed on money, it can subtly redirect our focus away from the true mission. Money can quickly become our motivation when meeting with potential supporters, whereas our heart posture should be one of connection with people and trust in the God of the impossible. As Jesus cautioned in Matthew 6:24, we cannot serve both God and money. If we are not careful, this tension between ministry and financial need can become a barrier, hindering our own spiritual growth and the growth of those invited into partnership with us.
As Christians, our view of support-raising will shape the financial culture of our faith communities and partnership teams. The way we approach finances—whether as tools for the mission or as obstacles—will impact us and those we partner with in ministry.
Foundations of Biblical Partnership
If we are to have a healthy, biblical view of raising support, it is important to understand what true partnership in the gospel looks like. The Apostle Paul presents this concept of partnership with the Philippian church. In Philippians 1:3-5, Paul writes: "I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now."
Paul is not merely thanking the Philippians for their financial contributions. He is thanking them for their partnership in the gospel—a partnership that goes beyond money. The word Paul uses here for “partnership” is the Greek word koinonia, which is often translated as fellowship. Paul’s gratitude is rooted in the fact that the Philippians are not just supporters, but active partners in the mission of the gospel.
Koinonia: More Than Financial Support
The idea of koinonia is central to understanding biblical partnership. Koinonia speaks of fellowship and a shared life in Christ. It encompasses mutual participation, a deep sense of unity, and the idea of a shared mission—spreading the gospel. Throughout his letter to the Philippians, Paul repeatedly emphasizes this concept of partnership in various aspects of the Christian life.
In Philippians 2:1, Paul refers to koinonia as participation in the Spirit—a mutual sharing in the life of the Holy Spirit. In Philippians 3:10, Paul speaks of sharing in Christ’s sufferings—desiring to know Christ more deeply and fully. These are not abstract theological concepts. The Word of God is inviting us into the deep, personal, and unified experience of following Jesus.
Paul’s financial partnership with the Philippians was inseparable from this larger vision of koinonia. Financial support is only one aspect of the greater fellowship that the gospel creates. This partnership is deeply relational—it’s about walking together in the mission of Christ, regardless of the cost.
The Heart of Support-Raising
The goal of support-raising is not simply to secure funds for a project or cover expenses; it’s about inviting people into the gospel mission as partners. The result of this is the opportunity to foster deep relationships, mutual investment, and shared participation in what God is doing through the Church. It transforms financial support into a mutual ministry—both the one who raises support and the one who gives are equally involved in the mission of Christ.
When we raise support with this mindset, we are not only honoring God in our ministry but also creating a culture of biblical fellowship in our churches.
At Reliant, we believe that biblical partnership, as seen in the letter to the Philippians, is a unified, relational, and spiritual participation in the gospel mission. Support-raising is not merely fundraising—it is about inviting others into the mission of God, partnering together for the sake of the gospel, and sharing in both the joys and challenges of following Jesus. As we press into this ministry of support-raising, let us remember that it is true partnership with the gospel—one that reflects the heart of God and the nature of His Kingdom.
Are you ready to embrace a biblical approach to support-raising? Learn more about how Reliant partners with ministry leaders to cultivate true partnership in the gospel mission. Email us today at partner@reliant.org.
