Financially Supporting Your Pastor
Let us turn our hearts and minds to a topic that is both practical and deeply spiritual: the financial support of our pastors. This is not merely a matter of church administration, but a biblical principle that reflects our understanding of God's provision and our commitment to His work.
1. The Worker Is Worthy of His Salary (1 Timothy 5:17-18)
"Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. [...] The worker is worthy of his wages." 1 Timothy 5:17-18 clearly establishes the principle that those who labor in the ministry deserve to be compensated. Our pastors dedicate their lives to serving God and His people, and they should be supported accordingly. This is not about wealth, but about providing for their needs.
2. Pastoral Support is a Biblical Command (1 Corinthians 9:14)
"Even so the Lord has ordained that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel." 1 Corinthians 9:14 emphasizes that this is not just a suggestion, but a divine mandate. God has ordained that those who preach the Gospel should be supported by the Gospel. This principle ensures that the work of the ministry can continue and flourish.
3. The Old Testament Law Already Established the Support of Leaders (Numbers 18:21)
"Behold, I have given to the sons of Levi all the tithes in Israel as an inheritance, for the ministry which they serve." Numbers 18:21 provides a historical precedent. In the Old Testament, the Levites were supported by the tithes of the people. This demonstrates that God has always intended for His ministers to be provided for by those they serve.
4. Pastoral Support Allows Full Dedication to the Ministry (Acts 6:4)
"But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." Acts 6:4 highlights the importance of freeing our pastors from financial burdens. When they are not weighed down by financial worries, they can fully devote themselves to prayer, study, and the ministry of the Word. This allows them to effectively shepherd the flock.
5. God Blesses Those Who Give Generously (2 Corinthians 9:6-7)
"Each man should give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 teaches us that giving is an act of worship. God loves a cheerful giver, and He blesses those who give generously. This applies to all areas of giving, including the support of our pastors.
6. The Principle of Spiritual and Material Reciprocity (Galatians 6:6)
“Let him who is taught the word share all his possessions with him who teaches.” Galatians 6:6 speaks to the principle of reciprocity. If we are receiving spiritual nourishment and guidance from our pastors, we should reciprocate by providing for their material needs. This is a practical expression of gratitude and appreciation.
7. Lack of Pastoral Support Can Harm God’s Work (Malachi 3:10)
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.” Malachi 3:10, while specifically about tithes to the temple, provides a principle that can be applied here. When the storehouse is empty, the work of God suffers. Lack of adequate pastoral support can lead to burnout, discouragement, and even the departure of pastors from the ministry.
8. Disciples Were Supported by Offerings (Luke 8:3)
"And Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, who ministered to him out of their substance." Luke 8:3 demonstrates that Jesus and His disciples were supported by the generosity of those who believed in their work. This is a historical example of how the ministry has always been funded.
9. Supporting the Pastor is an Act of Honor and Gratitude (Romans 13:7)
"Render to all their dues: taxes to whom taxes are due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor." Romans 13:7 teaches us to give honor where honor is due. Supporting our pastors financially is an act of honoring their dedication and service. It is a way of saying, "Thank you for your faithfulness."
10. The Church Should Care for Its Leaders with Love (Hebrews 13:17)
"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves unto them: for they keep watch over your souls." Hebrews 13:17 emphasizes the pastoral role as watchmen over our souls. Caring for our pastors financially is an act of love and obedience to God's will. It demonstrates that we value their spiritual leadership and that we are committed to supporting them in their calling.
Conclusion
Let us examine our hearts and ensure that we are fulfilling our biblical responsibility to support our pastors. Let us give generously, cheerfully, and with a heart of gratitude. By doing so, we are not only providing for their needs, but also participating in the advancement of God's Kingdom. Amen.
