Why did Paul not take money for his ministry as an apostle of grace?
Paul chose not to profit monetarily from his apostleship so that no one could accuse him of getting rich by his ministry. This contrasted with his former life in the Jews’ religion, where he profited above many equals, but as the apostle and preacher of the age of grace he did the opposite.
Les explains that Paul’s refusal was a deliberate contrast. In his former life in the Jews’ religion, Paul says he profited monetarily above many of his equals, and religious leaders like Caiaphas capitalized on their positions. But as an apostle and preacher of the age of grace, Paul would do the opposite: he would not let anyone accuse him of getting rich by his ministry. Les notes this remains relevant because many today view the ministry as easy money, but Paul avoided that charge entirely.
And profited in the Jews’ religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
More Questions
Is it common today for people to go into ministry for money?
The mindset of entering the ministry for easy money is widespread today, as illustrated by Les's high school friend who said he would go into the ministry because it is pretty easy money.
Is it common today for ministers to get rich from the ministry?
Ministers getting rich off the ministry is common today, and some even go into the ministry because it is easy money.