How does Deuteronomy 18:3 connect with New Testament teachings on supporting ministers? Setting the Scene in Deuteronomy 18:3 “Now this shall be the priests’ due from the people who offer a sacrifice, whether an ox or a sheep: They shall give the priest the shoulder, the jaws, and the stomach.” (Deuteronomy 18:3) • God established a concrete, tangible provision for His priests. • The offering was not optional or symbolic; it was literal food placed into priestly hands. • By design, Israel learned that spiritual service deserves material support. The Unchanging Principle: Those Who Serve Receive Old Covenant pattern → New Covenant practice. Scripture keeps the principle intact: • 1 Corinthians 9:13-14: “Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat of its temple offerings… In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • 1 Timothy 5:17-18: “The elders who lead well are worthy of double honor… ‘The laborer is worthy of his wages.’ ” • Galatians 6:6: “The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.” • Luke 10:7: “Stay in that house, eating and drinking whatever you are given. For the worker is worthy of his wages.” Tracing the Line: From Priestly Portions to Pastoral Provision 1. Divine command, not human charity – Deuteronomy 18:3 was mandated by God, not left to Israel’s discretion. – Likewise, New Testament giving is obedience to God’s pattern, not mere philanthropy. 2. Material gifts sustain spiritual work – Priests consumed the shoulder, jaws, and stomach; their physical needs were met so spiritual duties could flourish. – Apostles and pastors devote themselves to teaching, discipling, and prayer because the church supplies daily necessities. 3. Proportionate, practical, and personal – The portion matched the sacrifice offered. – Paul used agricultural and military images (1 Corinthians 9:7-10) to show believers how everyday resources translate into ministry support. Why the Connection Matters Today • God’s heart for His servants has never shifted. • Congregations mirror Israel’s obedience when they fund gospel work cheerfully and faithfully (2 Corinthians 9:7-11). • Honoring ministers honors the God who called them (John 13:20). Living It Out • View regular giving as worship rooted in God’s own design. • Recognize that supporting pastors and missionaries is a privilege, continuing the ancient story begun in Deuteronomy 18:3. • Expect the church to thrive when its shepherds are free from financial distraction (Acts 6:2-4). Summary The priestly portion in Deuteronomy 18:3 establishes a timeless principle: those who minister God’s Word are entitled to live by the offerings of God’s people. The New Testament echoes this standard, making it clear that generous, consistent support of ministers is an act of obedience, gratitude, and partnership in the gospel. |
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