1 Thessalonians 2

 

Paul wrote, "Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it." Paul didn't demand what he could have from the people at Thessalonica since he was an apostle of Christ. This shows me that certain honors or expectations should be given to those in certain ministries. In 1 Timothy 5:7, Paul speaks of elders who work expounding the Word as worthy of double honor. In 1 Corinthians 9, He speaks of those receiving wages who work in ministry. Paul wasn't against people in ministry receiving their livelihood from ministry (though he did warn that one in ministry shouldn't be covetous, 1 Timothy 3). Here however and in several other places, Paul felt it was important not to ask for help from those he was ministering to even if it was his right. This didn't mean his ministry was better than another but if we assume that God was directing him this was just the right thing to do. 

I have wished that I had wealth so that I wouldn't have to take a salary but most recently I saw that a church showing generosity to the pastor was actually a sign of their maturity and a blessing to them. Had I been financially well-off they would have missed a blessing and I would have not seen the heart of these people. Would it be nice to have all my bills paid off and have an income where I didn't have to depend on the church? I think so and maybe someday it will be, but for now, I am willing to receive the honor/wages due to the work I am called to do in the Word.  

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