Paul the Tentmaker

In Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul states that he and his companions "worked night and day, labouring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you" (2 Thessalonians 3:8). 

Those who truly understand Eph 4:11,12  realise that the fivefold ministry of Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Evangelists and Teachers are to "equip the saints for the work of ministry."  Yes, the saints - ordinary everyday believers - are to do the work of ministry! 

On the one hand there are a very small number of qualified and "called" people who have the privilege of being supported in "full-time" Christian ministry. The early disciples were indeed called from their everyday professions, some as fishermen, to lay it all down, so as to devote their energies into soul winning - or as Jesus said, to become "fishers of men." 

On the other hand, there are all too many who spoil this, or as my friend says, "monetise the Gospel"!

There are many missions and ministries vieing for our support. It is good to first assess their accountability, trustworthiness and importantly their effectiveness. 

I am particularly concerned about international ministry links, many of us hold on social media platforms. Please take care to do "due diligence, " as many of these appear to presume upon western donors as their primary means of support. 

Yes, church planting, orphans, and  ministries of justice etc. are all worthy causes. However they really do need keen discernment, wisdom and excellence in our vetting processes. 

I know the end of the old year is a good time for me to review those I intend to support in 2021. 

Scripture seems to indicate that even the Apostle Paul was involved in "tentmaking" as a means of income. He worked "a day job" and preached the Gospel. Respect for those who follow his lead.

Other scriptures that support this are:

Acts 18:1-3 New International Version

In Corinth

18 After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. 2 There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, 3 and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.

Acts 20:33-35 New International Version

33 I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing. 34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

May the Spirit of Lord lead you and your free-will giving in 2021.

Selah.