1 Thessalonians 2:9-12

“You remember our labour and toil, brothers and sisters; we worked night and day, so that we might not burden any of you while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.” vss. 9-12

Paul could have taken advantage of people’s hospitality in the cities that he visited. Even Jesus told his disciples that they could stay in people’s homes as they conducted their ministry. But  Paul wanted to put no burden on the people as he proclaimed the good news of Jesus Christ. So he worked! He was evidently a craftsman who worked with leather–some knew him as a tentmaker.

Sometimes we still hear of pastors and teachers who have what are called tentmaking ministries. Not that they make tents or work with leather, but they have full or part-time jobs in some career or profession. Their ministry is done during their off-hours or in the evenings and on weekends. It’s hard work, and few can sustain the required hours for any length of time. Often such folks burn out after a few years but we can understand their dedication. They don’t want anything to stand in the way of their proclamation, and like Paul they are perfectly willing to do it for nothing.

We can contrast such an attitude with some contemporary preachers who have figured out how to make a fortune out of the gospel. Their churches become cash cows and they amass millions from their podcasts and media presence. Paul would be appalled!

Thought for the Day: Why are people so gullible?