Is Support Raising Biblical?
Yes, support raising is absolutely Biblical. We see this pattern again and again in the early church, where believers prayed and gave generously to support those who were sent out for ministry. There are many examples in scripture showing that both sending and supporting cross-cultural workers were normal practices in the early church.
In Acts 13:1–3, we see the church at Antioch praying, fasting, and commissioning Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for ministry. The congregation’s prayer and guidance show that sending workers is both a spiritual and practical partnership.
“Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.” Acts 13:1-3
Paul frequently mentioned the support he received from the Church in his letters. In Philippians 4:15–19, he thanks the Philippians for their gifts.
“Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:15-19
Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 9:1-14, Paul affirms that those who proclaim the gospel have the right to receive material support: “The Lord has commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.”
These are just a few examples showing that support raising is a biblical model for the Church to partner in God’s mission, strengthen one another, and participate in the Great Commission.
What if I Don’t Want to Ask People to Support Me?
Support raising is not simply for ministry; support raising is a part of ministry.
Support raising is rooted in relationships. It’s not just about meeting financial needs for life and ministry overseas. Rather, it is about inviting others into what God is doing. Through this process, God grows His people in faith, obedience, and love as one body.
“Not all of God’s people are called to move across cultural and country borders to share the gospel. However, all of God’s people should be involved in this Great Commission of sharing the gospel with those who otherwise have no prospect of hearing it. As one who is called to go, you provide other believers with the opportunity to participate in this work,” Mission Coach Mike K. said.
At SIM USA, support raising is about inviting the body of Christ to participate in God’s work. Single workers have 200 prayer partners, and married couples have 400. These prayer partners faithfully pray and encourage you through all the ups and downs of ministry. Ultimately, they are partnering with you in ministry.
When SIM workers *Henry and Lauren began support raising, they were reminded that God was already preparing their supporters before they even approached them.
“We were told, ‘Don’t worry about the nos. God is preparing your yes partners, because He goes before us,’” they said.
That encouragement helped change the way they viewed support raising. They didn’t have to convince everyone they knew to give. They simply had to invite people to partner with them and trust God with the response.
Despite busy schedule and other obstacles, they saw God faithfully provide. By day 25 of support raising, they had reached 25% of their monthly commitment and 30% of their launch fund.
“Praise be to God,” they said. “We have been left in awe. What a testimony to others of the work God is doing in and through us and preparing the way for us to get to our field.”
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” 1 Corinthians 12:12
God intentionally chose to work this way. Through support raising, He invites the Church to engage more deeply in global missions and take an active role in His work around the world. He will work in your supporters’ lives, drawing them closer to Himself and to His mission.
“All these resources are God’s to begin with. You have no reason to be nervous,” Training and Development Lead Erin B. said. “This is about you stepping out in obedience, and if you believe God has called you to do this thing, He will make a way for it … These are stepping stones in your faith, and He will grow you through that.”
Are You Ready to Take the Next Step?
Support raising can feel intimidating at first, but it is not a task you face alone. Throughout Scripture and the early church, God has shown that He provides through His people’s prayers, generosity, and partnership.
As you invite others to join you in ministry, you are not just asking for funds. You are inviting them to take part in God’s work and to grow alongside you in faith. Every prayer, gift, and encouragement becomes part of a larger story of partnership.
What seems like an overwhelming goal can become a reality as you trust God and step forward. With SIM USA’s guidance, training, and tools, you will see God open doors and provide resources. You will also see the Church come together to stand with you in His work.
Ready to get started? Connect with a SIM USA mission coach today and begin your journey in cross-cultural ministry.
Maggie Watts
Content Creator
I am a content creator with SIM USA. It is a joy to use writing and multimedia to glorify God and tell stories about how He is working around the world.