THE SUPPORT OF THE MINISTRY (SANTAMARIA)

[It seems to us that the issue of a church's responsibility of support of their minister is unquestionable.  The finances of the church are NOT to be run as a mere ledger sheet, as if God did not exist.  The finances of a church are to be run according to faith in the Lord's supply, like all other matters in a Christian's life! - ed]

1. Matthew 10:9-10 Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food."

(Jesus instructs His disciples that they are to be supported by those they minister to.) 

 2. Luke 10:7 "And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house." 

(Jesus again emphasizes that those who labor in the gospel deserve material support.) 

3. 1 Corinthians 9:7-14 "If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you? ... In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel."

(Paul argues that ministers of the gospel have a right to material support, drawing from both the Old Testament and Jesus' teachings.) 

 4. 2 Corinthians 11:8: "I robbed other churches by accepting support from them in order to serve you."

(Paul acknowledges receiving financial support from other churches to minister in Corinth.) 

5. Galatians 6:6: "Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches."

(Believers are encouraged to share their resources with those who teach them.) 

 6. 1 Timothy 5:17-18: "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, 'You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,' and, 'The laborer deserves his wages.'

(Paul reinforces that those who preach and teach should receive generous support.) 

7. Philippians 4:15-16 "And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only."

(The church in Philippi is commended for their financial partnership with Paul.) 

8. Titus 3:13: "Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing."

(Paul instructs Titus to ensure that ministers are provided for their needs.) 

9. Hebrews 13:16-17 "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." 

(Believers are encouraged to be generous, which includes supporting those ministering to them.) 

Theological Implications of Ministerial Support in the New Testament

The New Testament teachings on ministerial support reflect deep theological principles about the relationship between spiritual labor and material provision. 

Below are some core themes:

1. The Principle of Reciprocity

1 Corinthians 9:11 

Galatians 6:6

The Apostle Paul emphasizes a reciprocal relationship between spiritual and material resources. Just as ministers provide spiritual nourishment, it is proper for the congregation to meet their material needs. This reflects an understanding of mutual care within the church body. 

Implication: Supporting ministers is not just a practical necessity but a spiritual obligation, demonstrating the unity and interdependence of believers.

2. The Right of Gospel Workers to Receive Support 

1 Corinthians 9:14, 1 Timothy 5:18 

Paul argues that those who proclaim the gospel are entitled to receive financial support, drawing from both the Old Testament law ("Do not muzzle the ox" – Deuteronomy 25:4) and Jesus’ own teaching (Luke 10:7). 

This indicates that ministerial support is a cultural practice and a divine ordinance.

Paying ministers is not charity—it is fulfilling a God-given duty to sustain those who devote their lives to spiritual work. --- ### 3. 

The Model of Jesus’ Command

Luke 10:7 -When Jesus sent out His disciples, He explicitly commanded that they should rely on the hospitality and provision of those they ministered to. This established a pattern that ministry should be sustained by the community being served.

Ministerial support reflects faith in God’s provision and trust that He will meet the needs of His workers through His people.

4. Generosity as a Spiritual Discipline

Philippians 4:15-18, Hebrews 13:16 

Supporting ministers is viewed as a sacrifice pleasing to God, a form of worship. Paul describes the Philippians’ financial support as "a fragrant offering," equating their generosity with Old Testament sacrificial worship. 

Contributing to ministerial support is not just a financial transaction—it is a spiritual act that honors God and furthers the gospel.

5. Church Autonomy in Titus 3:13

Paul encourages local congregations to take direct responsibility for those laboring in ministry. This reflects the New Testament model where they provide for their own workers rather than relying on centralized institutions.

Ministerial support should foster a closer bond between the congregation and its ministers.

6. Ministerial Support and Contentment

2 Corinthians 11:8-9, Philippians 4:11-13

While Paul defends the right of ministers to be supported, he personally modeled sacrificial service, sometimes refusing support to avoid misunderstandings. This balance reflects the New Testament’s emphasis on both responsibility for the church) and (for the minister).

Churches should give generously, and ministers should serve faithfully without being driven by financial gain. Would you like to explore any of these themes in more depth, or are there other theological questions you have in mind?