Answers Your Questions About Biblical Economics by John Avanzini

Author:John Avanzini
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Published: 2012-01-24T19:29:50+00:00

Question 11

Is it right for ministers of the gospel to have a better-than-average lifestyle?

In recent years the media has persistently bombarded the nation with so-called exposes about ministers of the gospel that they feel are experiencing too much of the good life. These reports have caused uninformed Christians to question whether or not the men and women of God— apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers— should receive more than just an average wage.

Let me begin by saying I am in no way defending the financial abuse of which some are guilty. However, when I answer a question about the proper lifestyle for God's ministers, I am duty-bound to do so according to the Word of God.

Tradition and God’s Word Differ

Most people are amazed when they find that the Scripture addresses the issue far differently from how they would imagine.

Traditionally, most people believe the lifestyle of a minister of the gospel should be average, or probably even below average. Many Christians and non-Christians alike hold this view. However, God's Word doesn't tell it that way.

One of the hardest things to accept is that God's Word on this subject will probably not make much difference to many folks because of their traditional beliefs.

. . . ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

Matthew 15:6

If we are to have God's mind about the lifestyle of His ministers, it is evident that we will have to go beyond the traditions of man.

Double Pay for the Men and Women of God

It is interesting to read what the Bible has to say about how the Church is to pay its ministers. It's much different from the traditional view.

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.

For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The laborer is worthy of his reward.

1 Timothy 5:17,18

The Word of God clearly states that ministers are to receive double honor. The word honor doesn't mean we are simply to open the car door for Pastor or take off our hats in his presence. The word honor speaks of the money he is to receive for his labor among us. The Bible is talking about how much we should pay our spiritual leaders. Those who labor in the Word and doctrine should receive at least double pay.

Notice that after saying that ministers should receive double pay, Paul backed up his statement by quoting from the Old Testament.

Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn.

Deuteronomy 25:4

Then, he further emphasized his statement by quoting the words of Jesus. These words clearly spoke of wages.

... the laborer is worthy of his hire....

Luke 10:7

Only the spiritually blind could miss the fact that Paul was speaking of financial remuneration!

The Blind Cannot Lead the Blind

Satan wants to keep the Church from grasping this truth. He knows exactly what will happen when we financially bless the ministers of the gospel. When he

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