Friday, May 11, 2012

Stingy Folks and The Gospel Work

QUESTION RECEIVED:

A man who's work is preaching the Gospel should make is living from the Gospel. I understand this. But how far should this be taken? Although writing various kinds of books are helpful, it seems every pastor and their mother is getting in on the act. Does this not take away from the ministering and shepherding of the flock? The first generation Christians who wrote the epistles took that time to meet a need of the church, not sell their writings for profit. In other words, let a pastor preach, and an author write. Also what about paid speeches or conferences? Quite honestly if I was told I could not come in to hear someone preach the Gospel unless I paid admission, I'd be pretty pi**ed. Should this not all be free of charge barring housing and food allowance if one has to travel? Why does everything pertaining to Christianity nowadays cost money?

MY ANSWER:

Why would we not want trained and learned men who have invested their lives in the gospel not to write books? Usually the books are about ministry and areas of study in preaching.  We benefit by the experience. 
Look at the latest best sellers-"Shades of Grey" teaches women how to masturbate better.
BRING ON THE CHRISTIAN BOOKS!

The Apostles wrote Holy Scripture when they wrote their letters or what we call epistles.  Today good and bad Christian books are written.  We had heretics in the days of the Apostles also who wrote bad books.  We do not want to discourage good Christian books.


About paid speeches and conferences-  The airlines do not have a free to fly clergy problem.  I wish they did. Hotels and conference centers do not run their air conditioners, give free seating, lights, and water for free or give away free food.  Christ had to miraculously divide loaves and fishes at two of His preaching events.  And yes their were women who financially supported Him during His preaching ministry.  For three years he lived off others.
I have a question for you.  In what place or industry or institution operates at zero cost and serves people?
Also, you were concerned about a price for admission at a conference.  Now you say people charge for preaching the gospel.   I have heard Joel Osteen did this once and no one else.  Was this preaching or a self help session?   So do not go to an Osteen event.  I would not.  
Why does Christianity cost money? It is because people eat, sleep, have medical expenses, need clothes and travel and get educated.  Living costs.  What about the brother who starves himself and his family to serve you?  Their are lots more doing it right than the few swindlers you are so concerned about.  The abusers are few in ministry of the peoples money.  Do not worry about the "Superstar" preacher.  God will deal with him.  Find a local church where the man of God needs support. 
My advise is biblical.  
PAY THE PASTOR AND DO NOT BE CHEAP! 

1 Timothy 5:17 - 18

"17 The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18 For the Scripture says, "YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING," and "The laborer is worthy of his wages." 


1 Corinthians 9:14  

"S0 also the Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to get their living from the gospel."


I am concerned that you are not sold on the role of a pastor, preaching the gospel, the church.  If you are a Christian this is an absolute.
Any man of God pays a price to preach as does any loyal follower of the Master. 

Matthew 28:16-20

New American Standard Bible (NASB)
16 But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated.17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. 18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “ All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19  Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” 

If your heart is hard to support the Lord's work you need to inspect yourself.
Do you believe that Jesus Christ came to Earth, lived a sinless life so he could save you and others from Hell by His paying for your sins to God?  
Do you believe the wrath of God, intended for sinners like you and me, was poured out on Jesus on the cross in our place?
Do you believe that If you repent (turn from your sins) and turn to Christ that God will forgive your sins, declare you righteous and you will have peace with God and send eternity in Heaven with Him?

You need to check your salvation.
You are not worth the blood of Jesus.  
But God in His grace declared it so. 
If you are one of the saved - then brother celebrate, and support and participate in the work of the gospel.






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