What does the Bible teach about prosperity?

[jcr4runner]

I got an interesting yet rhetorical question from a man in England about whether pastors and ministers ought to prosper from their work. Even though I didn't think he REALLY wanted to hear an opposing view, I responded by writing that ministers and pastors work mainly to support their churches and ministries -- that is, most of the money they earn goes toward ministering to people. Most pastors and ministers work a second job just to help make ends meet.

However, a successful pastor or minister ought to have an abundance of provision. It is no more a sin for a minister to prosper compared to their peers than it is for a successful doctor or teacher to prosper. God has given us the ability to create wealth so that we may be a blessing to others.

Read the question and response below. It's startling!

- Jay Rogers

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Date: Wednesday, September 27, 2006 4:51 PM
From: Marie and David Mumford <mumford1322@tiscali.co.uk>
To: jrogers@forerunner.com
Subject: Profit from Religion
Size: 3 KB

Hi,
Do you agree that making money from religion is a sin and that true servants of God should teach less fortunate individuals without any thought of reward?

I think the idea that religious leaders should benefit financially from their
leadership cheapens their role. Jesus should be our guide in this respect. He indicated that if you give all in this life, you will receive many times the reward in the next life and we read of the rich man who obeyed all the commandments but was saddened by the prospect of giving up his riches. Regards D

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Date: Thursday, September 28, 2006 5:37 AM
From: Marie and David Mumford <mumford1322@tiscali.co.uk>
To: Jay Rogers
Subject: Re: Profit from Religion

Thanks for your reply.
It is more or less what I expected.
I wonder what Jesus will say to you when you meet him!
I hope in reflection that you will reject Satan.

God bless

Do I detect the demon writhing within you?
Pray that Jesus will drive him out - quick before you burn!

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[douggiekaye]

It seems to me that in Paul's first letter to Timothy, Chapter 6, verses 6 through 14, (especially verse 8,) the Apostle's instructions are quite clear. Timothy was called of God to be an evangelist and the Apostle clearly teaches Timothy in this letter to be content with food and clothing.