God And His Word - A Question And Answer Approach To Understanding The Bible

to the heathen, but when the heathen are converted, God expects them to supply the needs of the ministry. Galatians 6:6; 1 Timothy 6:18. 11. DIDN'T PAUL THE APOSTLE DO SECULAR WORK FOR A LIVING? When he did, it was the exception rather than the rule. Most of his ministry to the churches was on a "full-time" basis. When he did work, it was to set an example or to help get a church started. Paul worked with his hands at Corinth (Acts 18:3), but also received offerings from other churches to maintain himself while he was there (1 Corinthians 9:15, 2 Corinthians 11:7-9; 12:13; Philippians 4:13), and he didn't plan to receive anything for himself on his third visit (2 Corinthians 12:14). It also appears that he did some secular work at Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:6, 9; 2 Thessalonians 3:8), but also received some offerings from Philippi to help support himself while he was there. It also seems that Paul did some work with his hands at Ephesus (Acts 20:34, 35). We find, therefore, ONE specific reference to his tent making, with possibility of his having worked in secular work THREE of the many cities where he preached. 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 gives the reason for what secular work he did do - to set an example of diligence before the converted heathen who tended toward laziness. 12. OFFERINGS "FOR THE SAINTS IN THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCHES. 1 Corinthians 16:1-3 was an order. The giving was to be weekly, and that upon the Lord's Day or the first day of the week. “Every one of you” was to participate. It was to be based on the only fair system - in proportion to how much God had prospered them. Romans 12:13; 236