How should we support those dedicated to ministry, as seen in Joshua 21:27? A snapshot of Joshua 21:27 “And to the Gershonite clans of the Levites they gave—from the half-tribe of Manasseh—Golan in Bashan, a city of refuge for the manslayer, and Beeshterah—two cities, together with their pasturelands.” ( ) What the provision tells us • The land division was intentional: God saw to it that ministers received tangible resources. • Cities of refuge were included, underscoring safety and stability for those who serve. • Pasturelands supplied ongoing income—support was not a one-time gift but a sustainable livelihood. • The arrangement was rooted in covenant obedience (Numbers 35:2-3). Timeless principles for supporting God’s servants 1. Provide real, material help • Housing, salary, insurance, tools—practical needs come first (1 Timothy 5:18; Luke 10:7). 2. Offer sustainable, not sporadic, support • Regular giving mirrors the ongoing pasturelands (Numbers 18:21-24; 1 Corinthians 9:13-14). 3. Guard their wellbeing and rest • Golan was a refuge; ministry workers need places and times of safety (Mark 6:31). 4. Recognize their spiritual leadership with honor • “Let the elders who lead well be considered worthy of double honor” (1 Timothy 5:17). 5. Partner, don’t patronize • The tribes supplied land, yet the Levites remained God’s servants, not anyone’s employees (Galatians 6:6; Philippians 4:16-17). Practical ways to live this out today • Tithe faithfully and give special offerings for missions, benevolence, and staff care. • Provide meals, lodging, or transportation when workers travel. • Volunteer time so pastors can focus on study and shepherding. • Budget for conferences, books, and sabbaticals. • Send timely encouragement—notes, texts, phone calls—bolstering morale (Proverbs 12:25). • Protect family time by respecting boundaries on days off. The heart behind the help • Gratitude: giving back because we freely receive the Word (Romans 15:27). • Obedience: supporting ministry is not optional generosity but commanded worship (Malachi 3:10). • Kingdom vision: resources in faithful hands multiply gospel impact far beyond our reach (2 Corinthians 9:12-13). |
    |