S. 1 Cor. 9:14 (NIV) 14 In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.
O. Paul has been teaching on his rights as an apostle with one of those rights being compensated (supported financially or perhaps some other way of support) for the work of preaching and teaching the Word of God (1 Cor. 9:1-18). He clearly teaches from God’s word that it was right and blblical to financially support those who teach the Word of God (v.7-11) - quoting from Deuteronomy 25.
Paul also added that while he had this right, he did not insist on it - in fact, he worked as a tent-maker to help support his work of preaching, teaching and planting churches.
A. As a church planting pastor, I can understand Paul’s situation - being so determined to preach and teach God’s Word, that I am willing to do other things (outside of the church) like teaching, officiating high school sports, and dabbling in book writing to support myself as I wait for the church to grow where it can more fully support my ministry. I look forward to that financial support, but I also so enjoy preaching and teaching God’s word, that it motivates me to serve in some of these bi-vocational roles.
P. Thank you Father for this word today. Thank you Lord Jesus for all you do for me. I pray that you will continue to supply my every need as I preach, teach and do your work of making disciples of all people. I know and am confident that you will continue to provide for me as I continue to do the work you have called me to do. I praise you and thank you, In Jesus' name.
