Many spiritually uninformed individuals engage in discussions about exegesis on social media, often using complex terms they don’t fully grasp.
To clarify, exegesis is the process of critically interpreting and explaining the meaning of a text, particularly in religious or literary contexts. It involves a detailed analysis of language, structure, and context to uncover the author's intended message. In biblical studies, exegesis is crucial for understanding the original meaning of scripture and its relevance today.
With that in mind, let’s critically analyze what Paul the Apostle said in 2 Corinthians 11:8: "I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.”
What does Paul mean by "I robbed other churches"? Was he stealing from them? Breaking into churches at night? Or forcefully collecting money after services? Which churches was he referring to?
In 1 Corinthians 16:1, Paul instructs, "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come." Here, Paul encourages the church in Corinth to follow the example of the church in Galatia regarding the importance of fundraising for ministry.
Let’s also examine Paul's financial relationship with the church in Philippi. In Philippians 4:15-16, he notes, "Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity." Paul acknowledges the Philippian church for their support during his time of need.
In verse 14, he commends them for their generosity, saying, "Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction." If this were today, some might criticize Paul for accepting money from the church.
Moreover, Paul speaks of "fruit abounding to their account" in Philippians 4:17. What account is he referring to? Clearly, it's the principle of sowing and reaping. Paul prayed for the Philippian church because of their generosity, stating, "But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." My question is simple: which other church received such prayers from Paul?
Some argue that God does not make anyone rich, yet Paul asserts, "But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
When Paul claimed he "robbed other churches," he was referring to collecting funds from them.
Finally, some say Paul never collected tithes from any church. Let’s examine another scripture. In 1 Corinthians 9:9-14, Paul writes, "For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn." He emphasizes that those who minister spiritual things should also receive material support.
Paul references the Law of Moses in Numbers 7:1-5, where offerings were given for the service of the tabernacle, and in Numbers 18:23-24, where the Levites received tithes. Paul applies this principle to New Testament pastors, highlighting that they are not funded by government agencies but rely on the support of the congregations they serve.
In conclusion, Paul argues that if we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much to reap material things in return?
The word of God cannot be broken, if Paul the apostle was bold in collecting offerings for the work of the ministry, let no man intimidate you with vain philosophy and doctrine of men.
Modesty is the name of the game!
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