Supporting those who spread the Gospel is a vital aspect of Christian community, as seen in the Philippian church's gifts to Paul, which he acknowledges as a fragrant offering to God in Philippians. The apostle Peter urges elders to shepherd their flocks with willingness and eagerness, setting an example for others to follow, as expressed in 1 Peter. Meanwhile, Jesus teaches that receiving a prophet or righteous person in His name brings a reward, as stated in Matthew. The Bible also instructs churches to give double honor to elders who serve well, particularly in preaching and teaching, as mentioned in 1 Timothy, emphasizing the importance of caring for those who minister to others.
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For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.
As a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings, and a partaker of the glory to be revealed, I appeal to the elders among you: 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; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”
Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.
He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives the One who sent Me. Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is My disciple, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward.”
So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.
Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.