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The biblical principle that no church can truly prosper, experience growth, the fullness of God’s power, or receive His blessings without supporting and honouring its pastors is rooted in Scripture. God, in His faithfulness, honours and rewards those who uphold and cherish their pastors.
“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially those who labour in the word and doctrine. For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain,’ and, ‘The labourer is worthy of his wages.’” (1 Timothy 5:17–18, NKJV)
In ancient times, oxen were used to plough fields and tread out harvested grain to separate the kernels from the chaff. It was considered unjust for a farmer to muzzle the ox and prevent it from eating some of the grain it laboured over. This principle, applied by Paul, underscores that those who labour in teaching and preaching the Word of God deserve proper support and honour.
Tragically, many Christians today have fallen short in this regard, expecting the best from their pastors while failing to support and honour them adequately. This neglect can be likened to “muzzling” their pastors—a practice that limits their effectiveness and prevents them from receiving what they rightfully deserve.
Galatians 6:6–9 emphasises the law of sowing and reaping: “Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches. Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
This passage highlights the importance of supporting those who teach the Word. When believers share generously with their pastors, they sow to the Spirit and reap blessings that include peace, joy, abundance, and good health. Conversely, failing to support their pastors may hinder the blessings they seek.
Supporting and honouring pastors is more than a financial obligation; it is a spiritual act of sowing into the Kingdom. By doing so, we align with God’s will and position ourselves to receive His promised rewards. It is a commitment to trust God’s timing and faithfulness, knowing that “in due season” we will reap if we do not lose heart.
As believers, let us ensure that our pastors are not “muzzled” but are given the support and honour they are due. In this, we uphold God’s command and open the door for His blessings to flow abundantly in our lives.
GOD’S servant: Peter Collins Obeng
GRACE COVENANT GLORY
