“Elders who do their work well should be respected and paid well, especially those who work hard at both preaching and teaching.” — 1 Timothy 5:17 (NLT)
The Bible is richly filled with beautiful and amusing illustrations, especially from day-to-day living experiences, that help us grasp spiritual truths. Moses, taking a cue from the herder’s practice, once said, “You must not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating as it treads out the grain.” (Deuteronomy 25:4). That is, It is only fair for farmers to allow their oxen to partake of the fruits of their labour that produced the grain.
Apostle Paul expands on this principle in 1 Corinthians 9:9-10, echoing Moses’ teaching that “the one who labours on the farm field deserves to share in the harvest.” Through these practical examples, Paul helps us understand that those who plant spiritual seeds among us—those who work hard in preaching and teaching—are entitled to receive material support from the community they serve (1 Corinthians 9:11-12, 1 Timothy 5:17).
God’s servants who labour among us for our progress and joy in the faith should be honoured with our material substances. This practice reflects that we recognise, value and appreciate the work they do.
There is an interesting story in the Old Testament. Before Saul became King of Israel, his father had asked him to look for his missing donkeys. After all efforts proved abortive, it was suggested that he should visit the man of God called Samuel. Interestingly, Saul was not comfortable with visiting Samuel without taking a gift along (1 Samuel 9:7). What we see here is that it was a common practice to honour God’s servants with material substance. Similarly, Abraham gave a tenth of all the spoils of war to Melchizedek who was regarded as the priest of the most high (Hebrews 7:1-2).
The nation of Israel was instructed to support the Levites, who served in the temple, with material resources. The offerings from the people were considered a reward for the Levites’ service (Numbers 18:21-32). Similarly, we are called to honour our ministry gifts—spiritual leaders and God’s servants—with material support, as they are entrusted with nurturing the spiritual growth of the local church.
The writer of Hebrews says that our spiritual leaders have a watch over our souls and they must give an account (Hebrews 13: 17). In appreciation and honour for their labour, we must be deliberate to communicate value through material gifts. Those who receive instruction in the word of God should support their teachers by sharing all good things with them. (Galatians 6:6).
Dear believer, embrace the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). Make a decision today to include your spiritual leaders, who are labouring to see you grow and stand perfect in God’s will, in your giving budget. This is God’s order to reward and support his servants.
Bible Reading Plan: I John 2