I went to a church where all the clergy had regular jobs. They thought it was a privilege to preach on their own time in the evenings and on Sundays. However, the Bible does say it’s OK for preachers to receive pay. Paul uses an example from the Old Testament to back this idea: “For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. ” (1Timothy 5:18).
This passage tells us that we rightly feed and care for the animals that work hard for us. We don’t expect them to live off of purely spiritual fare, or tell them that their labor is its own reward.
In the real world companies, people who work every day don’t simply receive a pat on the back for their hard work. They are paid. Clergy should receive the same consideration for their hard work as well.
“The labourer is worthy of his reward” means that the worker should be fairly paid. How often have you heard news anchors and actors speaking to you through television? They are paid for their work. The clergy, who speak to us the way of everlasting life, should also be paid fairly for their work.
What Do You Think?
a. Do you believe strongly that spirituality and money affairs should be kept separate? Why or why not?
b. Do you believe that preaching for money will corrupt the message and messenger? If so, do you believe every person who works for a living is corrupt?
