THE SUPPORT OF THE MINISTRY

The financial support of pastors is a clear biblical principle. From the earliest days of Israel to the apostolic era of the church, God's Word outlines the responsibility of His people to provide for those who He appoints to the ministry of the Word.

In the Old Testament, the Levites and priests, who comprised the tribe of Levi, were supported by the tithes (10%) of the other eleven tribes (Deuteronomy 18:1-5; Numbers 18:20-24). This arrangement ensured that those dedicated to the ministry of the tabernacle and the spiritual needs of the people would be adequately provided for. In fact, due to the tithes they received, the Levites effectively received 120% of the average income of the other tribes, reflecting their full-time dedication to the ministry and their lack of inheritance in the land (Deuteronomy 14:27-29). The importance of supporting God's ministers is seen in the command to take heed that the Levites were not forsaken in their ministry (Deuteronomy 12:19). By providing for their material needs, the tithes enabled the Levites to devote themselves fully to their ministerial duties. This model emphasizes the responsibility of the faithful to support those who minister to their well-being, ensuring they can serve effectively without distraction or neglect.

This principle of ministerial support continued into the New Testament. In fact, Jesus himself taught that those who dedicate their lives to the work of the gospel should be compensated for their efforts. He said, "The laborer is worthy of his hire" (Luke 10:7), and Paul echoed this sentiment in 1 Corinthians 9:14, writing, "Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel." This wasn't just a casual suggestion; it was a divine mandate. The apostle Paul, who had the right to financial support but sometimes forewent it for the sake of the gospel, emphasized that it is an ordinance of the gospel that those who minister should be supported financially. By removing financial burdens, ministers can devote themselves fully to the ministry, just as soldiers and workers do in their respective roles (1 Corinthians 9:7; 2 Timothy 2:4). This allows them to focus their energy and attention on the spiritual well-being of those in their care, without the distraction of worldly concerns. Civil ministers, such as magistrates, also receive financial compensation through taxes, highlighting the principle of dedicated service being supported by those who benefit from it (Romans 13:6). In the same way, those who are blessed by the ministry of the gospel should share in the financial cost of that ministry, enabling their pastor to serve with wholehearted devotion.

The duty of the church to financially support its ministers is underscored by the command for those who are taught in the Word to share all good things with those who teach (Galatians 6:6). This sharing includes financial remuneration, recognizing that ministers dedicate themselves fully to the work of the gospel. In addition, ministers who rule and labor in the word are to be counted worthy of double honor, speaking again of financial compensation (1 Timothy 5:17). This principle reflects the value God places on the ministry of the word. A minister's God-given gift, coupled with the time provided by the support of the church, will result in fruitful ministry (Proverbs 14:4; 1 Timothy 4:15). As the church provides for the minister's needs, they are able to focus wholeheartedly on prayer and the ministry of the word, leading to a more fruitful ministry. When pastors are freed from the necessity of secular employment, they can be freed from distraction and thus devote themselves to deep study and preparation, bringing greater depth and wisdom to their teaching, helping to ensure that they rightly divide the word of truth. Conversely, those who must split their time between ministry and other work cannot fully realize the potential of their calling, limiting the benefit to the church. Therefore, generous support from the church enables pastors to flourish in their role, ultimately strengthening the entire body of Christ, even outside of the local assembly. As believers, we must take seriously our duty to provide for those who labor in the ministry of the Word for the building up of the body of Christ.

The financial support of the ministry is not only a biblical principle but also a practical necessity. It is a tangible expression of the church's esteem for the ministry of the Word and its commitment to the spiritual growth of its members. As we reflect on the biblical examples and teachings outlined above, may we be motivated to give generously and cheerfully in support of those who serve us in the name of the Lord, recognizing that in doing so, such an act is well pleasing to the Lord. Let us pray for a heart of gratitude and generosity, acknowledging that everything we have is a gift from God, and therefore honor the Lord by honoring those who have been called to shepherd us, providing for their needs so that they may focus on equipping us to bring much glory to the Lord Jesus Christ.