Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. —I Corinthians 9:13-14

Ministers should never solicit funds for their own personal use but should have faith in the God that called them to minister. It is vital that ministers not labor for filthy lucre nor for a salary but with a willing heart and mind for the edification of souls.

While gospel ministers are to look to the Lord and not man, there is responsibility given to the people of God. The apostle Paul was reminding the congregation at Corinth of the labor and sacrifice of the ministry. In days gone by, the priests had a right to part of the sacrifices for their own sustenance. As they waited on the altar, so they lived of the altar. So it should be among the saints of God today. The Lord hath ordained, or ordered it thus, that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.

Those who are sent forth by Christ to minister and hazard their lives to spread the gospel should be supported and maintained in their work. It is the responsibility of the believer to sacrifice and give generously that the ministry can remain focused on the things of God and be able to work more effectively in the spiritual vineyard.

—mws