Church Leadership and the Support of It Chapter Seventeen

chapter 17

MONEY CHANGERS


Church Leadership and the Support of it

Now let's consider Christ's attitude concerning church leadership among God's people. Then later, we can see what the Word of God has to say about their means of financial support.
We've already looked at any New Testament scriptures where tithes are mentioned and have seen that Jesus did not say that tithing was to be the New Testament means of supporting ministers. We've also seen that all born again believers are ministers of his temple. Yet we know too, that God does call individuals to particular ministries, such as pastoring and evangelizing. God's Word does give us the answers we need, although his answers are not always what men would design, if it were up to them. God's ways are certainly best however, for all who belong to him.
Before Jesus died on the cross, he spent some time in prayer with his father. If we look at what he prayed, we can see what was important to him. We can see what was on his mind and heart before his death.
John 17:9-11 I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.
10 And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.
11 And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one as we are.
The subjects of the Lord's prayer were all those who God had given him, which were those who had come to believe in him, and accept him as their Lord. This is his church, his body, his temple. We have already seen that God is a God of unity and we see this again in this prayer, as he asks the Father to make us one as he and the Father are one.
Jesus also prayed for the Father to keep his children through God's own name. The Greek word for 'keep' in verse 11, is tereo, tay-reh'-o; “to guard (from loss or injury, prop. by keeping the eye upon; ... [Strong's]) The Greek word for 'name' is onoma, on'-om-ah; “a “name” (lit. or fig.) [authority, character]: ...
We might say that Jesus was asking his Father to guard his children from loss or injury through his own authority and power. The protection of God's people, then, comes first and foremost through the Father's name. It is his name that has all power and is the ultimate authority. God will never use any minister to lead us in any direction that is outside of God's own authority and character. When we live 'in' Christ and in agreement with his Word, then we live in the realm of God's own authority, which is the safe place to dwell. And if we live our lives based on the Word of God and in agreement with that Word, as his Spirit reveals it to us, we will begin to take on God's character.
There is one word that describes God's character well. It is the word 'love', for love is what God is.
1 John 4:8 “ ... God is love.”
Always keep this in mind when considering any teaching or doctrine. God is not merely rules, regulation and order. He is love! He will give no doctrine or law that is outside of love. Unity and love go together, for love is a unifying force. Selfishness and hatred are divisive forces.
So then, since Jesus is the living Word and he is love, as members of his body grow in his Word, they become more able to be unified as one holy temple for his Spirit to dwell in. Yes, unity is the heart of God.
The attitude that pleases God could be seen in his people in the book of Acts, after the day of Pentecost, when there were about three thousand people saved and baptized. After the holy Ghost had been sent, and these people received Jesus into their lives, look at what sort of attitude they demonstrated.
Acts 2:44+45 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
Perhaps these people got a glimpse of what Abraham had seen; that they were pilgrims and strangers headed for a better place. For certain, the love of God had come into their lives. They sold what they had and shared with others, not because the Law said they must, but this was in agreement with the attitude Jesus had taught. How selfless they became! They began to look to each others needs once the love of God came into their hearts. Self gain and preeminence were no longer what mattered.
Paul told the people in Philippians, what their attitude should be.
Phil. 2:3+4 Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem OTHER BETTER THAN THEMSELVES.
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
(emphasis mine)
The Lexicon gives the meaning for the word 'look', here as - “to look at, that is, care for, have regard to, a thing.”
The idea seems to be to actually involve oneself with taking care of others. This agrees with Jesus' instruction to deny self and take up our cross and follow him. (Mark 8:34) The cross is a symbol of self denial and self sacrifice, that others might live.
Notice in verse ten of John 17, when Jesus spoke of those who belong to him and the Father, he said, “... I am glorified in them.”
When we live the giving, caring life that Jesus lived, THEN he is glorified in us.
When parents see their children grow to become strong, accomplished adults, who carry on the training their parents have instilled in them, the parents are then proud and satisfied. Even so, we please God when we, his children, reflect the character and authority of God.
Now look at what Jesus said about leadership and authority in Matthew.
Matt. 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
26 But IT SHALL NOT BE SO AMONG YOU: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. (emphasis mine)
Isn't it wonderful how clear Jesus made his opinions and his ways to us? Yet man often establishes his own ways contrary to God's heart, while thinking he is doing God a service. But God's ways cannot be improved upon! What Jesus said in those verses, he said to the disciples after Zebedee's wife had come to him and asked him to allow her two sons to sit, one on either side of him in his kingdom, and the other disciples were upset over this request. In other words, she had asked him to give her sons places of honor, when he sat upon his throne one day. Jesus asked her sons an interesting question in response to their mother's request, in verse 22.
Matt. 20:22 “ ... Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? ...
Interestingly enough, he did not ask them for any other qualifications. But what he was asking them meant, are ye able to suffer what I must suffer? We see this to be the meaning by what Jesus said later in John, when the soldiers came for him and Peter tried to stop them with his sword.
John 18:11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?
The cup represented his suffering. So Jesus asked, concerning those who would desire positions of honor, if they could give up their own lives for others as he was about to do. When the other disciples heard what had been asked of him they were moved with indignation, or greatly displeased. This is what happens when men seek to have positions above others. The results are conflict and offense.
Jesus was very clear when he called them to him and gave them the instructions in Matthew 20:25-28, that between his followers, he wanted no one exercising authority over another, as the princes (rulers [Strong's}) of the Gentiles did. Now this may not agree with some of the modern day teachings on so-called 'spiritual authority', but it would do us all good to hear the words of Jesus, just the same.
One of the meanings for the words 'exercise authority', in the Greek, is “subjugate”. (Strong's) Subjugate means “to conquor; to compel to submit; ... (Webster's,) To exercise authority means, “to have (wield) full privilege over ... (Strong's) Jesus stated plainly “ ... “it shall not be so among you.”
There were no if , ands, or buts, about it “ ... it shall not be so among you.” If only the disciples would have understood what Jesus had meant about drinking the cup he would drink, perhaps this would have already been clear to them.
Notice that Jesus did not tell them that in order to be a great leader, they must attend seminary, be knowledgeable in scripture, be an eloquent speaker, know how to dress properly and be able to handle leadership with class and dignity. What he did say was “ ... Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister.” But dear reader, this does not mean to be what we call a licensed minister today. The Greek word for minister is diakonos, dee-ak'-on-os;; prop. from diako (to run errands): an attendant, that is, (gen.) a waiter (at table or other menial duties); ... (Strong's)
He also said , “ ... whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant.” The Greek word for 'chief' os protos; “foremost (in time, place, order, or importance): ... “ (Strong's) and the Greek word for 'servant' is doulos, doo'-los; a slave (lit. or fig. invol. or vol.; frequently therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency); - bond (-man), servant.” (Strong's)
Jesus' qualifications for positions of importance, certainly do not sound too glamorous, do they? Jesus' standard for one who would be great, foremost in importance, was to be the one willing to, and indeed active in, waiting on and serving the others, to the point of disregard for material gain.
Notice also that in these passages, Jesus doesn't refer to our serving him, but rather to our serving each other. Are you surprised by this? Look what he says in John 15:12-15
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
Jesus calls those who do what he commands, 'friends', not servants.
AND WHAT DID HE JUST COMMAND?
He commanded that we love one another, as he loved us!
HOW DID HE LOVE US?
He gave his life for us! Those doing as he did are called his friends.
WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN TO BE A FRIEND OF GOD?
The Greek word for 'friends' is philos, fee'-los; “prop. dear, that is, a friend; act. fond; that is, friendly [still as a noun, an associate, neighbor, etc.]: friend.”
Associate is according to Webster, “To adopt as a partner, companion, or the like; to join intimately (things together); to connect mentally (ideas or feelings): to unite; to combine ...
Jesus opened himself to his disciples and shared things from his mind and heart which he received from his Father. This was very intimate discourse. Jesus wants us to be united with him, sharing his heart, and his character. To be a friend or partner we must partake in his work, which involves the care of his children and also involves suffering.
I am afraid that far too many in the church world today, have missed what Jesus' requirements are for leadership and greatness. We have heard about serving Jesus many times. But God is almighty. He can speak into existence, anything he wants. It takes only a word for him to create. He doesn't need you or I to bring him his slippers, or his scepter, nor to dust or shine his throne. The kind of servants he wants are those who tend to the needs of his little ones, his children. After all, remember, we are created in his image. We are to be a reflection of him on the earth, not just a voice which declares words of explanation about who and what he is. We are to demonstrate him!!
(Jesus speaking) - John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go to my Father.
When we read this, we may think of wondrous healings etc., but let us not forget those things which he did, such as washing the disciples feet. He served others. THIS IS WHAT HE DID!
MARK 9:41 For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name,
because you belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
(speaking of judgment) Matthew 15:40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Matthew 25:45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.
If you give even a cup of cold water to one of God's little ones, in his name, you will receive a reward. What we do to God's children, we do to him.
DOESN'T NATURAL MEN FEEL THE SAME WAY ABOUT THEIR CHILDREN?
HOW MANY TIMES HAS A PARENT WISHED HE COULD BEAR HIS CHILD'S PAIN FOR HIM?
HOW MUCH JOY DOES A PARENT RECEIVE WHEN HE SEES HIS CHILD HAPPY?
Jesus' heart is toward his children! If then, you are a minister of him, that is where your heart should be also! So, it is when someone gives you a cup of water in HIS name – BECAUSE YOU BELONG TO CHRIST – FOR THAT REASON, HE WILL NOT LOSE HIS REWARD! The service God wants from us, is to care for our precious each others, who are his little ones.
OH! But this is not the way to greatness that appeals to human flesh! Men like to be honored and to hold positions of importance, based on their schooling, their talents, their claim to a call from God, etc. And for so long now men have loved to have men look up to, follow after, and to represent THEM, rather than to give God alone that place of honor.
From the beginning God wanted to lead and guide men, himself. But eventually his people decided to have a man for a king, against the will of God, and brought many problems upon themselves because of their attitude. Oh! That man would ever follow God's ways and his alone!
In the Old Testament, there were no kings over God's people, after Melchizedek, until Samuel anointed the first of Israel's kings. (see 1Sam. 10) Instead of kings, God chose certain men, and raised them up to be judges over his people. The Holy Spirit came upon these men and enabled them to accomplish God's will. God alone was Israel's ruler, but he moved by his Spirit upon the judge, and he then could judge the people righteously, as an instrument of God.
There came a time, however, when Samuel, the sixteenth judge of Israel, made his sons Joel and Abiah, judges over Israel. (see 1 Sam. 8:1-7) But his sons did not walk in their father's ways of godliness. Rather, they behaved sinfully. The elders of Israel were very displeased and decided they wanted a change. Apparently though, they did not seek God's will in the matter, but decided on their own that they wanted to have a king, rather than a judge, over the people.
The elders approached Samuel and told him to make them a king to judge them like other nations. Doesn't that sound familiar? There are always people wanting to be like others. Samuel was not pleased, but God assured him that these men were not rejecting Samuel, but that they had rejected God himself. God himself was supposed to be their ruler, not a man. In 1 Sam. 8:11-18, Samuel warned the people of the problems that would arise if thy had a king with; his' kingdom, but the elders had their minds made up. They wanted a man for a king. Even though he considered it a personal rejection, God let them have what they wanted. Today men continue to want a man to honor, count as their hero, and give respect and glory to. The apostle Paul had to deal with such an attitude in the New Testament. He addressed this issue in 1 Corinthians, which shows Paul's own attitude and also his instructions to the people.
1 Cor. 1:11-13 For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions (a quarrel ...[Strong's] ) among you.
12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
(added notation)
The type of division that Paul learned was in the church, sounds rather familiar, does it not? People are some times known by the name of their pastor, or denomination and often have a certain pride in this. When Paul heard what was happening, he could have taken the opportunity to instruct the people to be faithful to their particular leader or group. He could have told them that their leader was their spiritual authority and as such, they were obligated to submit themselves to him. Perhaps some of you have heard similar teaching in recent times. But brother Paul shared Jesus' view of unity for God's people. Paul understood that we, as the body of Christ, are to be unified, not divided. So he asked the question, “Is God divided?” Even when Paul was among the people proclaiming the message of Jesus, some wanted to exalt certain men as spiritual leaders and this still goes on today.
Acts 18: 24-28, we find that Apollos was a Jew, who was an eloquent man, mighty in scripture, who “mightily” convinced the Jews that Jesus was Christ, by using scriptures. So evidently the men who they sough to exalt were ministers of the gospel. But Paul told them how it was supposed to be.
1 Cor. 1:30+31 But of HIM are ye IN CHRIST JESUS, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.
31 That according as it is written, “He that glorieth , let him glory in the Lord.” (emphasis mine)
Notice the word 'of' in verse 30. Who are we 'of'? We are of Christ and in Christ. But who is Christ of? He is of God.! So then, is Christ, whom we are of, divided? Paul's voice clearly agreed with that of Jesus; that no one is to exercise authority over us, or to be Lord over us, except for Jesus himself.
There is definitely a place for pastors, evangelists, etc., in the body of Christ, but obviously it is not a place of domination over the rest of the body. Listen to Paul as he further expresses God's will, using himself as an example.
1 Cor. 2:2, 4:+5 For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of mans wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.
5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Paul, the same man who was sent by God to the Gentiles, the man accredited with writing many of the epistles of the Bible, tells the people that he determined not to know anything except Jesus, when he came among them. He didn't care to show his persona or knowledge of anything except Jesus his Lord. He didn't try to convince the people of his own importance, based on his position as a gospel preacher, or based on his own wisdom, or the wisdom of any other man, whether scholars or scientist, etc. He clearly states that our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men,. Our faith is to stand in the power and person of God himself.
Paul had stated earlier, these important words -
1 Cor. 1:25-29 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men: and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
27 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.
28 And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and the things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
29 That no flesh should glory in his presence.
Of those God calls, not many are the wise, mighty or noble men, after the flesh. God will always be Lord and King, and will not have us lift man above himself. Why should we lift up man whose wisdom is nothing when compared to the wisdom of our God?
Now hear Paul a little more.
1 Cor. 3:4-7 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not yet carnal?
5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?
6 I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.
7 So neither is he that planted anything, neither he that waterth; but God gave the increase.
The Greek word for 'carnal' is sarkikos, sar-kee-kos'; “pertaining to the flesh, that is, (by ext.) bodily, temporal, or (by impl.) animal, unregenerate:- carnal, fleshly.”
The man who looks to a man to be his conscience and to hear from God for him, is not spiritual, but thinks as an unregenerate (unsaved) individual.
Paul said that he and Apollos were just ministers by whom the people believed. He was calling himself and Apollos that word 'diakonos, meaning, “one who runs errands, a waiter at table or other menial duties, etc. as we saw from the Strong's Concordance. He then went on to say that they were not anything. The Lexicon gives the meaning for 'anything', here, as, “it is used emphatically, equiv. to something of consequence, something extraordinary.” If Paul says that he, who men consider to be a great and mighty man of God, is not anything of consequence and nothing extraordinary, where does that put the rest of us, including preachers today? As Paul stated and knew quite well, it is only God who gives increase and anything we accomplish, it is with his help and by his power working in and through us.
(Jesus speaking) John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. (emphasis mine)
Preachers can preach until they lose their voices, but no one is going to come to Jesus unless God the Father, draws him, himself. It would behoove pastors, evangelists, etc. to place their total dependency on the Lord, for in themselves they are nothing, no matter how educated in scripture or any other thing.
What then did Paul want men to think of him and the other preachers who had been named?
1 Cor. 3:20-23 And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.
21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours.
22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;
23 And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.
1 Cor. 4:1 Let a man so account ( ... estimate ... [Strong's]) of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. (added notation)
For 'ministers' the Lexicon says, “anyone who aids another in any work; an assistant: of a preacher of the gospel.” These men served God's children, knowing that they too were his children. They had been given truths of God to share with others, but those truths came from God and any authority they had, was only the authority of God's word and his name, not their own.
God had not appointed his ministers to exercise their own authority over other Christians. They were to give the gospel and the Word of God, which is the authority, since after all, Jesus is the living Word and HE has all power and authority. As we've already seen, in the prayer Jesus prayed, we are all kept by one thing; - the Father's name. It is God's authority that keeps us, not that of any man. No matter what he claims his title to be, or claims his calling to be. No man has authority, outside of God's Word, over God's children. If God's Word does not say it, no man has the right to impose it.
It is a normal thing for a new Christian to have a tendency to depend heavily, for spiritual insight, on the person through which he first heard and received the gospel; the one who led him to Christ. And those who are mature, are indeed, to be examples to those who are younger in the Lord. But all Christian leaders, and in fact, all older Christians, should be sure that the example they are giving is that of Christ, not self.
Paul told the Thessalonians this concerning a particular issue.
2 Thes. 3& For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us; for we behaved not unseemly among you.
The word 'follow' here comes from the Greek word mimeomia, mim-eh'-om-ahee; “(a mimc); to imitate.” He spoke of following his example of behavior; mimicing him, not following his person as an idol. Paul said this also.
1Tim. 1:15-16 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
16 Howbeit (nevertheless [Strong's]) for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
God chose to take a sinner who had persecuted Christians and demonstrate his longsuffering, by saving Paul, letting others see how merciful he is. So Paul became an example of what God will do for even the lowest of sinners, who will except him as Savior and Lord. It was not only what he did that was an example to us, but also what God did for and through Paul. God changed Paul as no man ever could have done. He filled Paul with love for those he had once persecuted. He revealed spiritual truth to him and gave him the power and ability, through the Holy Spirit, to live the Word of God. Paul's' example is of what God can and will do in us, if we submit to HIM. It was not a call to lift up and glorify Paul or his own works.
2 Thes. 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, ...
The Greek word for 'command' is paraggello, par-ang-gel'-o; to transmit a message ... - (give in) charge ...(Strong's) Paul was transmitting a message of authority from God. We should never let a man tell us what God wants us to do with our lives, unless he is sharing the Word of God itself with us, or, that is, speaking in total agreement with God's Word; giving us the authority of God. God alone is our Lord.
Paul wanted the people to pray for him, in Ephesians.
Eph. 6:19+20 ... that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel.
20 For which I am an ambassador ...
And in Corinthians he said -
2 Cor. 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ ...
In the Greek, 'ambassador' means - to be a senior, that is, “(by impl.) act as a representative” ... Paul wasn't out to proclaim the importance of self, but rather, to represent and demonstrate, Jesus Christ!
Christ came to serve mankind. Is that what our Christian leaders demonstrate? Oh, that all Christian leaders would point people to dependency on Christ and Christ alone!
Giving the Word of God to unsaved people is sowing a seed that only Christ can cause to grow. Man is not the seed, cannot make it grow, and should give all glory to God when a soul is saved.
New born babies are held by their mothers and fed until they are old enough and strong enough to eat on their own. Eventually, however, a healthy child will grow to be an adult capable of feeding himself. So it is with a newborn babe in Christ. He may be fed the Word of God, but if he is fed only the Word of God, on God's authority alone, not mixed with the opinions of men, he should grow to the point that he is eating that Word on his own, developing a personal walk with the Lord and learning to know God's voice for himself.
1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grown thereby.
The Greek word for 'sincere' is adolos, ad'-o-los; “undeceitful, that is, (fig.) unadulterated: sincere. (Strong's)
Unadulterated means – genuine; pure. (Webster's) Pure means - “Free from all unnecessary matter, esp. from anything that pollutes; free from anything that contaminates ...” (Webster's)
God knew there was nothing more suitable to a new born baby's digestive system than its mother's milk. Anything else, except perhaps, pure water, could cause digestive problems, allergies, etc. Likewise, he knew, that for the new babes in Christ, there is nothing more suited to his inner man, his spirit, than the pure Word of God, to make him grow in spiritual health. Too often though, new Christians hear some of the Word, but their system becomes polluted with the doctrine and opinions of men. As scriptures show, their need is for the pure Word of God, free from all unnecessary matter.
So God calls individuals to preach the gospel, that those who do not know Christ, might receive him and to feed his Word to new Christians. He also calls teachers to feed his Word to others. In fact, all Christians, being part of God's priesthood, have a responsibility to share his Word with others.
Babies get hungry, they desire to be fed, but they do not know how to feed themselves and will trustingly open their tiny mouths for anything that is brought to their lips. If the first thing they receive is mother's milk, received from mother, and are fed this over a period of time, they may refuse to drink any other formula offered to them, having acquired a taste for their mother's milk and being secure in nursing. However this can also work in reverse.
Babies are born with an instinct to suck and their hunger comes naturally, but they do not know what they are supposed to receive. There are some foods they could receive and could grow and even get fat, while, at the same time causing difficulty to their digestive system, such as constipation, unhealthy fat, allergies, etc. Still they would grow. But if they receive only what God originally designed for their tiny bodies, not only will they grow outwardly, but there will be far more internal peace, greater resistance to sickness, infection and disease. Babies are vulnerable to those adults who care for them.
In spiritual things, there is also a vulnerability in the new convert, to those more knowledgeable, who feed them spiritual things.
So those who are older in the Lord need to realize this and remember that we are called to build up, or edify each other. Leaders need to be careful to feed only the pure Word of God, and to demonstrate the life of Christ to those young in Christ, for their health, peace and resistance to the enemy of their souls.
1 Cor. 14:26 ... let all things be done unto edifying.

WHAT IS IT PREACHERS ARE TO PREACH?

Luke 9: 1+2 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
2 And he sent them to preach the KINGDOM OF GOD, and to heal the sick. (emphasis mine)
They were given power and authority from God himself. THEY WERE TO PREACH THE KINGDOM of who? Remember, the kingdom of God is that realm of God, where he himself rules and reigns, not man! Preachers are not to direct people to dependency on themselves for all spiritual guidance, but rather, to lead them to dependency on Jesus. They are to teach them to stay in the realm of God's rulership and his authority (his name), where he will keep them safe from harm. This is what Phillip did in Acts.
Acts 8:12 But when they believed Phillip preaching CONCERNING THE KINGDOM OF GOD, and the NAME of Jesus Christ ... (emphasis mine)
And look at what Jesus did when he appeared to his disciples after the resurrection.
Mark 16:15 And he said unto then, Go ye into all the world, and preach the GOSPEL to every creature. (emphasis mine)
They were to preach the good news that the Messiah (Savior) had come, fulfilled the Law, redeemed them from Satan and his rulership, had taken their sin, and was willing to usher them into the realm of God's authority. They were to let the people know that Christ had made the way for them to commune with God, without having to go through other men to reach him. Never be deceived into thinking that you cannot hear from God personally.
1Cor. 6:20 For you are bought with a price ...
Children of God, if we do not carry the message our king wants given, in his name, which is his authority, our authority may be debated and will not be received by our arch-enemy, who will bow to no one but Christ.
Even Christ himself, while on earth as a man, came only in his Father's name. He would only speak and do what his Father told him to do.
John 7:16 Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.
John 12:49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
John 5:43 I am com in my Father's name ...
Heb. 4:15+16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
The call to preach the kingdom of God and the name, or authority of God, is the same today as it was then. Preachers are to let people know these truths, and let the people know how that Jesus made access for each of us, to come directly to the throne of God. That privilege is not reserved for the clergy. As the Lord told Ananias in Acts, concerning Paul, it is the same for ministers today. They are to carry the 'name' of God to others.
Acts 9:15 But the Lord said unto him. Go thy way: for he (Paul) is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear MY NAME before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: (emphasis mine)
(speaking of Jesus) - Phil. 2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
Who could be a better example of leadership according to the will of God, than Jesus, the Son of God, the king of kings? He, the creator, exalted and honored the one who had sent him, and not himself, though he too was God!
Leaders, lead to God, not self. Hear what your Lord had to say!
John 5:44 How can ye believe, which receive honour of one another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
Leaders, establish one thing ever so clearly in the minds of new believers, and that is the fact that there is one way and only one way for proper growth and for victorious lives, spiritually, mentally and physically. There is only one eternally true voice to listen to and believe. It is Jesus Christ, who is truth, who is love and who is the Word of God!
Leaders, lay the proper foundation for the believer's life; JESUS!
It may be tempting to exalt yourself, since men to look to men for guidance, but resist such temptation. Never take a position which belongs to Christ alone.
Young child of God, get away from any leader who tells you that you must submit to 'his' authority, because he is a man of God. But the man who speaks God's Word to you and points you to dependency on God and his Word, is a man to respect, to learn from and to support.
SO THEN, WHY DO WE HAVE APOSTLES, PROPHETS, EVANGELISTS, PASTORS AND TEACHERS?
HOW SHOULD WE REGARD THEM?
WHAT IS THEIR ROLE?
HOW ARE THEY TO BE SUPPORTED?
Eph. 4:8+11-16 Wherefore he saith , When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
This could be interpreted in two ways. One is that Christ gave some individuals the gift of apostleship, etc. The other is that he gave apostles, prophets, etc. to the church as gifts. Both may be true. If these are gifts from God to us, should we not appreciate them, love them and care for them? Verse 2 tells us plainly God's purpose for giving them. He gave them for the perfecting of the saints. Perfecting means “complete furnishing ...” (Strong's). Furnish means “To provide or supply with something necessary, useful, or desired ...” (Webster's)
AND WHO ARE THE SAINTS? They are all those who have been born again and washed in the blood of the Lamb of God. They are the children of God. We've already seen what it means to 'minister' as Christ did; who laid down his life for others, and these 'gifts' are given for the work of the 'ministry'.
TO WHAT END DO THESE GIFTS MINISTER TO THE BODY?
For the edifying, or building up of the body, which is Christ's temple. Where his Spirit dwells. These gifts then, are building tools. Look for a moment at verse 13. What does the word 'till' suggest to you?
The Greek word for it is mechri, mekh'-ree; or mechris, mekh-ris'; “as far as, that is, up to a certain point; (as prep. Of extent [denoting the terminus] (Strong's)
Terminus means , “The end or limit; the finishing point or goal; extremity; either termination point of a travel line. (Webster's)
The word 'till' then, suggests that these gifts are given to help us reach a certain goal. Once that goal is reached, the tools used for getting there are no longer needed for that purpose. Once the house is built, the building tools are put away. (see 1Cor. 13:8-13) We are told what the goal is. It is for the members of the body to come into the unity of the faith and unity of the knowledge of the Son of God. These gifts are to help bring us to the point of being one unified man, having the measure ( ... degree ... [Strong's]) of maturity of the fullness of Christ. At that point, those gifts, in these capacities, will not need to lead us any more, for we will be unified with them.
So the ultimate goal of a minister should not be to obtain a position of authority over others, so as to bring glory to himself. We should desire to be used of God in the capacity he gives us, to aid in the growth of the body, until ...
We should be pleased when our brother or sister had grown to the point that they are ready to take on leadership themselves and no longer need our leadership. A true man of God should never suppress the people in order to retain some authority position over them. As verse 15 says, God is the head. No man can ever take his place.
The goal will only be reached if the leaders speak the truth in love. Jesus is the truth! When we know the truth we will not easily be tossed back and forth by different doctrines which men try to put on us, which they have formulated in their own carnal minds
If the entire body of Christ were fitly joined together and compacted (put together ... of the parts of the body 'knit together' into one whole, ;;; [Lexicon]), so that every joint (prop. ligament (as fastening ...[Strong's]) could effectually supply, to the body, what it should, then there would be an increase in Christ's body, and a building up in love. We need these gifts which God had given to us for our good, as love tools. They cannot give us God's fullness, but they can direct us to him who can. They receive their strength and ability from their source, Jesus Christ.
Col. 1:16-19 For by him (Jesus) were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him and for him.
17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning,the firstborn from the dead; that in ALL THINGS he might have the PRE-EMINENCE.
19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell; (emphasis mine)
Our faith is not to stand in man, but in Jesus our king, our high priest, who is our head,and in whom all fullness dwells.
(Paul speaking) Eph. 3:14-19 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and in earth is named,
16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,
18 May be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;
19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.
Paul was one minister who understood his mission; that it was not earthly fame or dominance for himself. He prayed for the people to be filled with the fullness of God. He certainly did not try to keep them subdued spiritually, beneath him. Rather, Paul wanted and prayed for them to be increased in the things of God. He worked toward that goal of unity for God's children, that they would become one as Jesus wanted them to be!
Child of God, the fullness is in Jesus and you can be filled with him!!
Those children of God who give their lives serving God's little ones, leading them to Jesus and the life 'in' him, surely deserve to be cared for and supported.
After looking at scripture concerning pastors, we will see how God wants his ministers to be supported and what pleases the heart of our God.