There is a lot the Bible has to say about preachers and financial support, though we shy away from things that has to do with the gospel and money, it is important to understand what it says in order to be able to support our preachers in a healthy and responsible way. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about preachers asking for money and healthy ways preachers to approach financial support.
I. Preachers Receiving Financial Support
According to 1 Corinthians 9:14, preachers have the right to receive financial support from those they minister to. This is because they are serving the Lord and His people through their preaching of the gospel. We know men and women of God to be people whose sole responsibility is dedicating their lives to serving God and His people, propagating the word of salvation and it is only fair that they are supported financially by those they serve. However, this does not give ministers of the word the right to manipulate or take advantage of people in order to gain financially. Preachers should approach financial support with sincerity and transparency, focusing on serving God and His people rather than accumulating wealth for themselves.
II. Preachers Avoiding Dishonesty and Greed
Honesty and transparency in financial dealings is emphasized in 2 Corinthians 2:17. Preachers must be sincere in their motives and speech, speaking in Christ in the sight of God. The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil, and preachers should avoid being greedy or loving money. This is emphasized in 1 Timothy 6:8-10, which states, “But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” Instead, preachers should be content with what they have, focusing on the service they provide to God and His people, rather than on gaining wealth.
III. Preachers’ Responsibility in Asking for Money
As 1 Thessalonians 2:5-6 explains, preachers should not seek money through flattery or deceit. This means they should avoid manipulating people into giving them money. Additionally, 2 Corinthians 8:21 emphasizes that preachers should be above reproach in their financial dealings. This means that they should be transparent in their requests for financial support and handle money with integrity. Preachers should avoid taking advantage of people who are vulnerable or in need, and should instead approach financial support with the right heart and attitude.
IV. Preachers’ Attitude Towards Money
According to Matthew 6:19-21, preachers should not store up treasures on earth, but rather in heaven. They should not be driven by the love of money or material possessions, but rather by their love for God and people. Jesus warns us against the dangers of greed and covetousness, saying in Luke 12:15, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Preachers should not be focused on accumulating wealth, but rather on serving God and His people. Their primary focus should be on preaching the gospel and fulfilling their calling to serve God, rather than on financial gain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, by following these biblical principles, preachers can fulfill their calling to serve God and His people with integrity and excellence. It is important for congregations to support their preachers while holding them accountable to these biblical principles. Preachers should approach financial support with sincerity and transparency, avoiding greed and dishonesty in their dealings with others. Let us pray that preachers will have the right heart and attitude towards financial support, and let us support them as they faithfully serve God and His people.