Topical Bible: Ministers: should not Be: Greedy of Filthy Lucre

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In the context of Christian ministry, the character and conduct of ministers are of paramount importance. One of the key attributes that Scripture emphasizes is that ministers should not be greedy of filthy lucre. This term, "filthy lucre," refers to dishonest or unethical gain, particularly in the context of financial matters. The Bible provides clear guidance on this issue, underscoring the spiritual and moral integrity required of those who serve in ministry.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Timothy 3:3 : In the qualifications for overseers, the Apostle Paul writes, "not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and not a lover of money." Here, the emphasis is on the character of a church leader, highlighting that a love for money is incompatible with the role of a minister.

2. Titus 1:7 : Paul instructs Titus regarding the qualifications for elders, stating, "As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-absorbed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money." This passage reinforces the idea that a minister must be free from the pursuit of dishonest gain.

3. 1 Peter 5:2 : The Apostle Peter exhorts elders, "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them—not out of compulsion, but because it is God’s will; not out of greed, but out of eagerness." This verse highlights the motivation behind ministry, which should be a willing service to God and His people, rather than a pursuit of personal financial gain.

Theological Implications:

The prohibition against greed for filthy lucre is rooted in the broader biblical teaching on the love of money. In 1 Timothy 6:10 , Paul warns, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." This warning serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual dangers associated with a love for money, particularly for those in positions of spiritual leadership.

Ministers are called to be stewards of God's resources, managing them with integrity and transparency. The pursuit of dishonest gain not only undermines the credibility of the minister but also damages the witness of the church. The New Testament consistently calls for a lifestyle of contentment and generosity, contrasting sharply with the greed that characterizes the pursuit of filthy lucre.

Practical Considerations:

In practical terms, ministers should exercise caution in their financial dealings, ensuring that their actions reflect the values of the Kingdom of God. This includes transparency in financial matters, accountability to church leadership, and a commitment to ethical standards in all transactions. By doing so, ministers can model a life of integrity and faithfulness, serving as examples to their congregations and the broader community.

Furthermore, the church has a responsibility to support its ministers adequately, ensuring that they are not placed in a position where financial pressures might tempt them toward unethical behavior. By providing fair compensation and fostering a culture of generosity, the church can help safeguard its leaders from the pitfalls of greed.

In summary, the biblical mandate for ministers to avoid greed for filthy lucre is a call to a higher standard of integrity and service. It is a reminder that the true riches of ministry are found not in material wealth, but in the faithful stewardship of God's calling and the spiritual well-being of His people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Acts 20:33
I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Timothy 3:3,8
Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Peter 5:2
Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Letter xiv. To Heliodorus, Monk.
... good work." [225] I know that; but you should add what ... of a bishop the apostle speaks
of ministers of the ... tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xiv to heliodorus monk.htm

The Great Shepherd
... Whether there be any ministers in our assembly, or not, you ... great Day of the LORD ,
that he should have a ... There are idle shepherds, who feed not the flock, but ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/newton/messiah vol 1/sermon xiii the great shepherd.htm

Of the Power of Making Laws. The Cruelty of the Pope and his ...
... and was so often denied to the ministers of the ... Does he pluck off those masks lest
the simple should be deluded ... are corrupt and noxious which do not direct men ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 10 of the power.htm

Concerning the Ministry.
... and other offices, by the immediate command of God to Moses; so that the people
needed not to be in any doubt who should be priests and ministers of the holy ...
/.../proposition x concerning the ministry.htm

A Discourse of the Building, Nature, Excellency, and Government of ...
... now thy roving mind Recoil against him should, and fling ... A DOUBT, COME, THE LORD
JESUS WILL NOT CAST THEE OUT ... graduated, is the only one where ministers can be ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse of the building.htm

The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment:
... day was observed, men were chosen as ministers not from high ... But can any imagine,
that he there should strike at ... you see that "flesh and blood" is not to be ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the resurrection of the dead.htm

A Few Sighs from Hell;
... righteousness, which was but rags, yea, filthy rags (Isaiah ... but to whet up the greedy
unsatisfied appetite ... that those that are learned should not despise those ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a few sighs from hell.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... In this plight, therefore, he went home, and refrained himself as long as he could,
that his wife and children should not perceive his distress; but he could ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm