Compensation for Hard Working Spiritual Leaders: 1 Timothy 5:17-18
“17) The elders who lead well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18) For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle the ox while it is threshing,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.”” 1 Timothy 5:17-18
It is imperative that you give double honor to elders who rule well. This is especially true for those who work hard at preaching and teaching. I believe the double honor includes both respect and adequate financial support.
Both here and in 1 Corinthians 9:7-14 Paul quotes from Deuteronomy 25:4. The Old Testament text relates to not muzzling the ox while threshing. If you want it to work hard you need to feed it well.
The underlining parallel is that ministry is hard work. Preaching the Word and shepherding people is a full time job. I recognize that Paul was willing to make tents while planting a church, but as soon as the church started thriving, he devoted full attention to the ministry.
The old idiom is true; “You get what you pay for!” When pastors are distracted earning personal support, time in prayer and the Word are cut short. It shows up in shallow and unprepared preaching and teaching. The unction to preach with power and anointing is often missing. This is fueled by much time in prayer.
We often see this in remote and tribal area’s where pastors are working all day at other jobs just to make ends meet. It shows up quickly in shallow and often erroneous preaching. Soon the church begins to suffer. The laborer is worthy of his support.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global