Walls Down | I Won’t Ask Again
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
In recent newsletters I have shared some heavy and technical things. I know that can become tiring over time, and I feel that same weariness myself. So bear with me for one more topic like this. The next issue will be lighter and, I think, quite enjoyable.
Today I want to explain how I think about raising support for this ministry.
What Scripture Says About Supporting Ministers
The Bible is very clear that those who labor in the gospel should be supported by the people of God.
“The Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.” 1 Corinthians 9:14
“Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor… ‘The laborer deserves his wages.’” 1 Timothy 5:17–18
Jesus Himself taught this when sending out His disciples:
“The laborer deserves his wages.” Luke 10:7
So supporting ministers is not a modern fundraising idea. It is part of the ordinary life of the church.
Yet the way Scripture handles this support is deeply pastoral.
Paul’s Pastoral Pattern
Paul strongly taught that ministers should be supported. Yet he never demanded support for himself.
Instead, he shepherded the churches toward generosity.
Sometimes he honored the generosity of one church so others could be encouraged.
“No church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.” Philippians 4:15
“Your zeal has stirred up most of them.” 2 Corinthians 9:2
Sometimes he simply taught the principle of generous giving.
“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” 2 Corinthians 9:6
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
And sometimes he asked churches to care for ministers he sent to them.
“See that Zenas the lawyer and Apollos are well supplied for their journey, so that they lack nothing.” Titus 3:13
“When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you… help him on his way in peace.” 1 Corinthians 16:10–11
In all of this, Paul was not manipulating people. He was shepherding them.
He was teaching believers how to participate in the work of the gospel.
Why I Say I Won’t Ask
Recently I told some of you that I would not ask for financial support.
I meant that, and I still do.
At the time my conviction was influenced by men I deeply respect who believe ministers should never ask for support and should simply trust God to provide.
While studying Scripture more carefully, I began to see that the biblical picture is fuller than that.
Paul does not pressure people for money. But he does teach clearly about generosity. He honors churches who give. He makes needs known. And he encourages believers to care for those who labor among them.
That is not fundraising.
That is shepherding.
So I will keep my word. I will no longer ask anyone for money.
But I will teach what Scripture teaches, and I will speak openly about the work God is doing.
And when we have new missionaries prepared for the cause I will ask you to support them.
A Quick Encouragement
One brother we’ve been walking alongside recently shared this encouragement after beginning to pursue the Lord more faithfully in His Word:
“Lately, especially in the last month or so, I’ve been improving on reading the word on a regular basis thanks to encouragement from my brothers and sisters in ROOM. Believe when I say that it has been positively life-changing. It has helped me pray better, lead my household better, even communicate better. I can tell I’m going down the right path, but there is still much work and learning to be done. And I can’t wait.”
Call Beyond The Screen
“Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.” Philippians 4:17
I make known to those I minister to the generosity of churches, brothers, and sisters around the United States that are supporting me so I can continue ministering to them. That is a part of your testimony to them that the Church loves them. Thank you for allowing me to mention you and honor you before others. It is the testimony of the work God has done in you.
So go and be generous. Give of yourself to others. Care for your neighbor. Wisely labor for Christ our king using all that God has given you. Build the kingdom, and be of good cheer, for your works bring us ever closer to the actualized kingdom.
Peace be with you,
Matthew Boyer