But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. 1 Timothy 5:8
One of the challenges of the Church and Christians is to provide for those who are in need. As Jesus said “Its more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35) Many people catch on to this and try to abuse the Church to support them , when they are capable of supporting themselves. The early Church in the writings called the “Didache” called these people “Christmongers” those who abuse the Church by continually taking and not giving back
The words of the Apostle Paul under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is a strong message and waring “Anyone who doesn’t provide for himself and his family, has denied the faith and is worse than a infidel or non believer” As the Apostle Paul wrote to the Church of Thessalonia “if you don’t work, you don’t eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10) this idea that Christians should be lazy and non productive is not Biblical. In fact it should be the opposite, as the Apostle Paul said “in everything we do, do it for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31) How do we give glory to God by taking advantage of people?
The Apostle Paul goes through intensive instructions of situations when someone should accept help from the Church, however this should be an exception. Many people have used the Church as their own provider, essentially you are stealing from God. If you are capable of taking care of your family, then you should take care of yourself and your family. This doesn’t just mean in finances but in all things, raising your children in The Lord is a special calling
Even the Apostle Paul, while he was in ministry, worked as a tent maker not to burden the Church (Acts 18:3) Paul as an Apostle and minister of Christ, was worthy of receiving support and wages of the Church, however he choose to help the Church also. I think this model would keep alot of more Pastors honest, relying solely on the Church to financial support you, could lead into compromise or corruption. Don’t get me wrong, Pastors and leaders of the Church are worthy of their wages (1 Timothy 5:18)
As the Apostle Paul says in verse 16 “ do not let the Church be burdened” he warned those who can provide for themselves, should provide for themselves so they don’t burden the Church. Then those resources can be used for people who actually need them, just as God designed for His Church, Amen
Trending Products
