Why is it important to apply 1 Timothy 5:18 in church governance? Opening the Text “For Scripture says, ‘Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,’ and, ‘The worker is worthy of his wages.’” (1 Timothy 5:18) Why This Verse Belongs in Governance Conversations • It appears in a section on elders and church order, so its immediate setting is leadership structure. • Two Old and New Testament quotations (Deuteronomy 25:4; Luke 10:7) seal the principle with divine authority—God speaks once in Moses, again through Jesus. • Paul anchors policy not in human opinion but in written, Spirit-breathed Scripture; ignoring it would mean sidelining God’s own directive. The Principle of Provision • God provides for His servants through His people. • Denying material support can hinder ministry, frustrate calling, and contradict God’s stated will. • Provision is neither charity nor luxury; it is portrayed as wages the worker “is worthy” of—just payment for labor rendered. Supporting Passages • 1 Corinthians 9:7-14—Paul unfolds the same ox imagery and concludes, “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” • Galatians 6:6—“The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” • Numbers 18:21—Levites receive tithes because they “perform the service” of the tabernacle. God’s pattern of compensating spiritual labor predates the church age. Practical Reasons to Apply 1 Timothy 5:18 • Ensures pastors and elders are free to devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word (Acts 6:4). • Communicates value for the labor of teaching, leading, counseling, and shepherding. • Prevents burnout that comes from juggling secular employment and full-time ministry expectations. • Models generosity for the congregation, reinforcing stewardship and gratitude toward God. • Establishes transparent budgeting lines, reducing suspicion or secrecy around salaries. Biblical Safeguards against Abuse • 1 Timothy 6:6-10 warns against love of money; support must not morph into greed. • 1 Peter 5:2—elders serve “not for dishonest gain, but eagerly.” Compensation is fair, not exploitative. • Plural leadership and accountable boards keep salaries reasonable and mission-focused. Aligning with Christ’s Example • Jesus lived on the support of faithful followers (Luke 8:1-3), demonstrating legitimacy of receiving provision. • By instructing “the worker is worthy of his wages,” the Lord Himself endorses the principle we apply in governance. Steps for Implementation 1. Teach the congregation the biblical basis—read 1 Timothy 5:17-18; 1 Corinthians 9. 2. Set compensation through a committee of mature, financially informed believers. 3. Review yearly, considering cost of living and family needs. 4. Publish a general budget summary to maintain trust and openness. 5. Encourage a culture of thankfulness—notes, meals, days off—beyond mere paycheck. Fruit of Faithful Application • Leaders minister with joy and focus. • Congregations witness healthy, long-term shepherding. • Outsiders see a church that honors both Scripture and those who proclaim it. • Above all, God is glorified when His Word shapes every line item and decision. |
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