Many faithful pastors and Bible teachers I know work full-time secular jobs to provide for their needs. This has also been my situation for the past twenty years, as I have served as a full-time Case Manager for a local nonprofit that assists the elderly, disabled, and impoverished in my community. My job helps pay the bills and put food on the table. Occasionally, I receive small financial gifts that help cover ministry expenses and provide for Bible study resources—and, of course, coffee. God has been exceedingly gracious in providing both steady employment and the generosity of those who give as conduits of His grace. I am deeply grateful to the Lord and to those who support my ministry in this way.
Throughout my years of Bible study and Christian ministry, I’ve come to understand that if a believer is receiving theological instruction from a pastor, Bible teacher, or Christian author, and is being spiritually edified through their ministry and advancing in their spiritual life, then he has a responsibility to contribute financially to support that minister. This financial support enables the minister to continue studying, teaching, and providing sound biblical instruction for the edification of the body of Christ. Just as the minister labors in the Word to serve the Lord and build up others spiritually, those who benefit from his teaching have the privilege of partnering in his ministry through their generosity. Paul communicated this when he wrote, “If we sowed spiritual things in you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?” (1 Cor 9:11), and “The Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to get their living from the gospel” (1 Cor 9:14). Elsewhere, he told the Galatians, “The one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him” (Gal 6:6). Supporting those who faithfully teach God’s Word is an opportunity to invest in the spiritual growth of others, ensuring that the truth continues to be proclaimed and lives continue to be transformed.
However, Paul also provides balance. Though he had the right to financial support, he sometimes chose to forgo it for the sake of the gospel. Paul told the Corinthians, “Nevertheless, we did not use this right [to reap materially], but we endure all things so that we will cause no hindrance to the gospel of Christ” (1 Cor 9:12). Paul understood that in certain situations, accepting financial aid could be a stumbling block, so he willingly worked with his own hands, making tents (Acts 18:3) and supporting not only himself but also those who served alongside him. He reminded the Ephesian elders, “You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me” (Acts 20:34). His decision was not a rejection of the principle of ministerial support but a strategic choice to remove any potential obstacle to the gospel. And he did this without complaining
The principle is, those who receive biblical instruction and benefit from it are responsible for supporting those who teach, and those who teach must steward that support wisely. At the same time, the Bible teacher must be flexible, knowing when to accept support and when to forgo it for the greater purpose of advancing the truth. Paul exemplified this balance, at times receiving support (Phil 4:15-17) and at other times supporting himself through tentmaking (Acts 18:3). His priority was always the clear and accurate communication of God’s Word.
Bible teachers, your calling is serious business. Teaching the Word must always be your top priority—no exceptions, no excuses, and no complaining. Ministry is not about personal comfort or financial gain; it’s about obeying the Lord who called you into service and faithfully serving with integrity, humility, and a grateful heart. Remember, you are a servant of the Lord, and your motivation must flow from your love for God and your unwavering commitment to fulfill the divine mission He has entrusted to you. At times, the road will be difficult, and resources may seem scarce, but you are never without what you truly need. God’s grace is sufficient. Always rely on His grace—for provision, for perseverance, and for the strength to keep going when you feel weary. It’s grace all the way—grace in receiving the support He provides and grace in the way you serve His people. Keep teaching, keep trusting, and keep glorifying the One who called you. Your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Cor 15:58).
Dr. Steven R. Cook
If this article has enriched your understanding and walk with Christ, and you feel led to support my ministry, your generosity is greatly appreciated. Your gifts enable me to continue sharing the gospel of grace and providing in-depth biblical teachings. Thank you for partnering with me in this mission.
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