Paul commends giving without greed and covetousness in his heart. He doesn’t manipulate people, but he wants them to be fruitful and fragrant!

First, we can be forgotten as we minister the gospel. Philippians 4:15 “And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone.” Care nothing for it. Do not resort to the Law. We don’t extort people to manipulate giving. Bear patiently and suffer. Teach them. Show that you’re willing to work with your own hands, and care for their souls.

We are not in ministry for money or fame. We don’t do it for an easy life or a cushy job. We are not after men’s love, praise, or adoration. We have been sent to serve souls, because we love God, and we are deeply indebted [Romans 1:14]. Amazing grace laid hold on us, and we must preach, because we’ve been commanded [1 Cor 9:16]. Yes, woe is us if we don’t preach, and part of our boasting is we do it freely, taking a loss in our finances to minister Christ. No man should preach, unless he must. Then, it doesn’t matter if he’s paid or not. 1 Corinthians 9:16, “For if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because an obligation is placed on me. And woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!”

People are right to give! Faithful ministers need support, but we do not coerce with guilt, fear, or the Old Testament tithe. Send men to Christ, and tell them, “Do likewise. He gave Himself for you. Now, give to support His cause. Give cheerfully and generously, as God has blessed you.” 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

We learn a lot about a preacher through his money. Is he covetous for gain?

Secondly, here’s why we want people to give: Not for us, but for them. Philippians 4:17, “Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account.”

Paul isn’t talking about giving to coerce something. His hand is not in their pocket. He mentions their giving to encourage them - that fruit may abound to their account.Ours is a sincere ministry, like Paul. We’re doing good unto others.

Pray this motive into your heart, dear preacher. Confess self-seeking, as you see it. Believe that character change is the fruit of the gospel, and God will use you. The vessel that is sanctified and fit for the Master will be used. 2 Timothy 2:21, “So if anyone purifies himself from anything dishonorable, he will be a special instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” He has been purged from corrupt motives by forgiveness and cleansing, so he walks in love. He communes with God, so he leads others to Christ, sincerely. His heart is full, so He doesn’t covet. Philippians 4:11, "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content."

When I first thought of preaching after God restored me, I only wanted to HIDE BEHIND THE PULPIT, and preach Christ. Now, hide behind the text and exalt the Savior. Don’t seek to be liked. Seek to minister!

Thirdly, God will supply our needs. Philippians 4:18-19, “But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Our giving is a fragrant sacrifice, acceptable by faith in Jesus. Like Abel, God has regard for us and our offering [Gen 4:4]. He sees us trusting the Son who honored Him to the death - the One who put away our sins by His fragrant sufferings, whereby He finished the work of redemption [Levi 1:3-9]. Thus, through Christ’s perfect work, God receives our gifts, and He is not stingy. He knows we have needs, and He will supply them. He’ll give us grace to give, grace to serve, and grace to die when necessary. He will never forsake those who serve Him, so give with your eye on God’s goodness and provision. Don’t think that you’re on your own.

Saints, the gospel transforms us. It produces selfless people - preachers who don’t covet and hearers who are generous; it makes us like Christ in giving and serving; it produces the character of God that’s honorable and lovely [Phil 4:8]. Let us be about this business - preaching with content hearts and willingly supporting the men that feed us. Let us give to the needs of Christ’s body, the church!