Quote:
Originally Posted by Jacob's Ladder
I recall Paul stating in Acts 20:34, You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions.
It wasn't "tithes" that financially supported Paul's ministry but rather the laboring of his own two hands! Paul was a prime example. Please compare Paul's situation versus pastors these days who live off the "tithe" while playing golf all day. |
Hello Jacob's Ladder.
Paul did not exercise his right to ministerial support for a very specific reason, and it's actually the reason you've stated: he wanted to provide an example of a work ethic, and avoid the appearance of ministering merely for the gain of filthy lucre (
2Th 3:10).
However, simply because he did not exercise his right does not mean he obviated it. In
1Cor 9, he lays out his case that not only ministers of the Gospel in general are due this right, but he and Barnabas specifically have earned it (vs. 6, 11-12).
As I stated previously, those who abuse this right and that which is entrusted into their care do not negate the commandment to support the ministry based upon the underlying principle of the Levitical system- the tithe. Yes, there are those who minister for filthy lucre's sake. But for every one of these, there are countless others who do so genuinely, and for the right reasons, and are faithful stewards of God's resources.
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