Certain Disciples Minister to the Lord Jesus of Their Substance

    Jesus, who could supply others by miracle, lived himself by Providence. The Lord of the universe, who at first created the world, and who still by his Providence makes the earth fruitful for the supply of man and beast, instead of supplying his wants by immediate creation, drew his supplies from his people. Wonderful humiliation! The Lord of heaven and earth condescends to live on the bounty of those who are supplied by his own Providence! Thus he gave not only the most amazing instance of humility, but afforded an opportunity to his disciples to manifest their faith in him, and their love of him. In this way he still acts. He makes some of his people poor, that others of them may have an opportunity of ministering to Jesus by ministering to the saints. What is done to his children is done to himself. His gospel is not preached, as it might be, by angels; but is to be sent over the world by his redeemed people. Here they have an opportunity of ministering to Jesus, by contributing to extend his kingdom. The service of the Lord Jesus requires the substance of his people; and they who rest on his power to uphold his kingdom, without connecting it with the means of his appointment, separate what God has joined together. When Jesus had to ride in triumph into Jerusalem, he sent a messenger to the owner of the ass, saying, " The Lord hath need of him." Is it not enough for a disciple, when the cause of God says to him, " The Lord hath need of thy substance, or thy services?"