In 1962 John Glenn made history as the first American to orbit the Earth. As the rocket ascended, ground control said, “Godspeed, John Glenn.” “Godspeed” comes from the expression, “May God prosper you.”

Though we don’t often hear this word today, the apostle John used it in his second letter: “If there come any unto you, and bring not this [biblical teaching], receive him not into your house, neither bid him Godspeed” (2 John 1:10 kjv).

John has been referred to as ‘the apostle of love’, so why would he warn believers against giving a blessing to others? Travelling teachers were dependent on the hospitality of Christians to provide them with room and board. John was telling the believers that biblical truth is important. If travelling missionaries were not preaching the biblical truth, believers were not to bless their work by providing lodging or financial assistance.

This is also true for believers today. We are to treat everyone with kindness because God is kind to us. But when asked to financially support someone, it’s important to always ask God for wisdom. The Spirit who guides us in truth (John 16:13) will show us when it is appropriate to bid Godspeed to those we encounter.

Author

Dennis Fisher

Topics

Our Daily Bread