Gaining a Biblical Perspective NSO PD Training April 2019

An Important Distinction Scripture is always our guide. But we must decide whether a given biblical passage is describing a past method God used to support His workers, one that would apply today, or a general principle. Tithes paid to Levites (Num 18:21, 31). Paying church leaders (1 Tim 5:17). The worker is worthy of his wage (1 Tim 5:18).

Significant OT Ideas The Levites in the OT were ministry workers supported by God’s people. The people gave to the LORD and He gave the tithe to the Levites. The Levites also gave back to the LORD.

Significant NT Ideas Luke 8:1-3—Jesus lived on the support of others. Luke 10:7—The laborer is worthy of his wages. The Apostle Paul echoed this principle in 1 Cor 9:14, Those who preach the Gospel should receive their living from the Gospel. Phil 4:17—Like Paul, we ask for support for the benefit of the giver.

Generous Biblical Giving 2 Corinthians 9 The principle of sowing and reaping The principle of cheerfulness The principle of God’s gracious re-supply.

An Important Question Since the Bible does not give an example of one person asking another person for ministry support, may we do this with God’s blessing? George Müller’s conviction was: we may not. Our conviction is: we may, based on the principle of 1 Cor 9:14.