1 Corinthians 9:14
I think if you were to poll pastors on what is the most controversial (if not difficult) topic to preach on, it would be on giving (tithing). Why? Because it is about money. Tithing, or a tenth, goes back to the book of Genesis when Abraham gives a tithe to Melchizedek as a way of expressing thanks to God for a victory. This became part of the Mosaic law. The New Testament does not specifically mention giving a tenth, but it does mention giving as an integral part of our walk and expression of worship. But still, discussing money is controversial enough among family (to this day, I have no idea what my siblings made in salaries when they were in the work force…they are all retired now). Now broaden that conversation out to friends and acquaintances, and you’re likely to have even less conversation on the subject. It’s a personal matter. And how we spend our money is just as personal. Sure, we can see what type of house they live in or car they drive, but how they got the money is truly none of our business.
Those in vocational ministry mean just that, their vocation is ministry. Whether preaching or serving as a member on the staff, their living is earned through their work at the church. I’m not talking about volunteers, who, without a church like Emmanuel, could not function, but those whose paycheck comes from the church. The hours spent on the position(s) are not being done for free. There are bills for putting food on the table, utilities, mortgages, car payments, etc. We all know them because we all have them. As Paul writes to the church at Corinth, your preacher deserves to be paid for his ministry. In the contemporary context, your church staff is deserving of their pay. I think it is safe to say that none of us get up and go to work for free. We may truly enjoy our jobs, but a paycheck is necessary whether we like what we do or not. Those in vocational ministry are not in it “for the money.” It is their call and passion. But the church congregation is responsible for ensuring fair pay for work (ministry) provided. In the New Testament, giving is described as joyful. A celebration of God’s provision for us. In the same way, as we give, it is through us that God is providing for the church.
I think if you were to poll pastors on what is the most controversial (if not difficult) topic to preach on, it would be on giving (tithing). Why? Because it is about money. Tithing, or a tenth, goes back to the book of Genesis when Abraham gives a tithe to Melchizedek as a way of expressing thanks to God for a victory. This became part of the Mosaic law. The New Testament does not specifically mention giving a tenth, but it does mention giving as an integral part of our walk and expression of worship. But still, discussing money is controversial enough among family (to this day, I have no idea what my siblings made in salaries when they were in the work force…they are all retired now). Now broaden that conversation out to friends and acquaintances, and you’re likely to have even less conversation on the subject. It’s a personal matter. And how we spend our money is just as personal. Sure, we can see what type of house they live in or car they drive, but how they got the money is truly none of our business.
Those in vocational ministry mean just that, their vocation is ministry. Whether preaching or serving as a member on the staff, their living is earned through their work at the church. I’m not talking about volunteers, who, without a church like Emmanuel, could not function, but those whose paycheck comes from the church. The hours spent on the position(s) are not being done for free. There are bills for putting food on the table, utilities, mortgages, car payments, etc. We all know them because we all have them. As Paul writes to the church at Corinth, your preacher deserves to be paid for his ministry. In the contemporary context, your church staff is deserving of their pay. I think it is safe to say that none of us get up and go to work for free. We may truly enjoy our jobs, but a paycheck is necessary whether we like what we do or not. Those in vocational ministry are not in it “for the money.” It is their call and passion. But the church congregation is responsible for ensuring fair pay for work (ministry) provided. In the New Testament, giving is described as joyful. A celebration of God’s provision for us. In the same way, as we give, it is through us that God is providing for the church.
Posted in Devotional