Propempo: the Greek word for supporting missionaries
Ready for a mini Bible study on partnership development?
As Paul and other early missionaries traveled on their evangelistic missions, they boldly expected to be provided for by churches along the way. Scripture often uses the Greek work “propempo," which means “to send before; to send forward, bring on the way, accompany or escort; to set one forward, fit him out with the requisites for a journey.” This word gives us insight as to how the early church worked together to accomplish the mission of God.
(Note: the verses below may use slightly different grammatical forms of "propempo," but I'll stick with the basic form for simplicity.)
“I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey [propempo] there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while.” (Romans 15:24)
“Perhaps I will stay with you for a while, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey [propempo], wherever I go.” (1 Corinthians 16:6)
“No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way [propempo] in peace so that he may return to me.” (1 Corinthians 16:11)
“I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia and to come back to you from Macedonia, and then to have you send me on my way [propempo] to Judea.” (2 Corinthians 1:16)
“Do everything you can to help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way and see that they have everything they need [propempo]." (Titus 3:13)
“They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way [propempo] in a manner that honors God. It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans. We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.” (3 John 1:6-8)
Paul often wrote boldly to the churches, urging them to "propempo" him or other missionaries on their journeys. This meant more than just financial support—it was a call for the entire church to rally behind the missionary, sending them out with resources, prayers, and encouragement. It wasn't about a one-time financial gift or “love offering,” but a holistic, heartfelt partnership that encompassed spiritual and practical support.
In an era before automatic monthly giving websites, this was how the church supported those among them who were called into full-time vocational ministry. Paul was bold to ask and expect this because supporting each other practically was already a common practice. The church was birthed with Acts 2:44-45 generosity, providing for all among them who had need. They understood the value of financial and emotional support as part of the lifeblood of the Body of Christ, sharing in the commission of global discipleship that Jesus left them (Matthew 29:18-20).
Just like Paul, we have permission to ask boldly. However familiar or unfamiliar this kind of generosity may be in our culture, it is very biblical and it is intended to be an expression of the Body working together. I often remind my partners that they are the “wind at our backs” as my husband and I obey the assignment God has given us. We couldn’t do this without them, any more than Paul could preach the gospel throughout the Gentile world without the churches “propempo”ing him on!