March 24, 2016: SOAP #2303:

Scripture: 1Corinthians (NIV) 9:16 Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast [of not receiving finances in return for his ministry], for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!    17 If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. 18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it.

Observation: Paul has just presented the justification that those who preach the gospel should expect to receive money for living from that ministry. However, he rejoices that he does not rely on his preaching to earn his living. He does not preach in order to earn a salary, but because God has assigned Him to preach. He does not have a choice—yet he does have a choice—he can do it voluntarily/willingly, or as a requirement. His refusal to require a salary is proof that he is doing it voluntarily. His joy is in the giving of such a wonderful gift!

Application: I have been on both sides. For years I received a salary as the pastor of a church.   Now that I am retired, I have the joy of providing the ministry God has assigned me with no expectation of financial return. And I consider it a special joy to be able to provide finances to some who translate and distribute these SOAPs. The money comes from another of God’s assignment—driving a school bus.

Prayer:   Lord, thank you for the calling and the privilege of serving you. Thank you for the joy of providing ministry with no expectation or need of payment. I am blest! Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!