THE HONORARIUM SERIES 3

THE HONORARIUM SERIES (3)

Vital Lessons to Learn

The etymology of the word “honorarium” has to do with the word “honour” in the light of a “gift.”

The basic difference between an honorarium and a gift is that a gift is something given freely to someone in form of money, goods, and so forth, while an honorarium is something given freely to someone IN RECOGNITION of services they render. Both are without obligation. However, we can see, from the definition, that a gift can be given to ANYONE but an honorarium is not just for anyone. In other words, all honorariums are gifts but not all gifts are honorariums.

Honorarium is within the purview of “honour.”

Bringing this into our context, we see that it is not until a “special” ministration happens that a minister is deserving of a gift/honorarium. Paul said, “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” (1 Tim. 5:17–NKJV). This apparently has to do with honorarium, as explained in Part 2. Ruling well means performing the duties of their office.

From this reference and other references we have seen in this series, there are four points that stand out:

1. The giving of honorarium is not a “modern church thing.” It is an age-old Christian practice recognized in the early church and, most importantly, endorsed by the Lord Himself.

2. It is equally freewill and a responsibility. As much as the church should see it is as freewill, we should also recognize it as a responsibility. One who carries out their responsibility is called faithful and one who doesn’t is regarded to be unfaithful.

3. It is totally wrong for a minister of the gospel to put a price tag on their ministerial services or demand a fee in order to minister. This is not what Jesus taught. This is not what Paul taught either. It is making merchandise of the anointing. It ceases to be a honorarium once it has a predetermined value.

4. Like the point above, the order is clear: the ministerial service precedes the honorarium. So any discussion or deliberation between the minister and the “ministee” (😂) regarding what value they want makes it cease to be a honorarium and hence, it is not the gospel way.

Inviting a minister of God as a guest without proper plans for their welfare is stark dishonour. Remember, as much as honorarium is freewill, it is also a responsibility. In Part 1, we saw that “Freely you have received; freely give” does not mean that the minister should not RECEIVE but that he should not CHARGE. Jesus went on to emphasize how that it is the responsibility of those who receive of their ministry to give to them.

Taking in practically, many think it’s just about mounting the pulpit and talking or praying. No. A lot of things are invested into the ministration by the servant of God: time, energy, prayers, fastings, study, and so forth. Sometimes, even money. These things are not free. They should be appreciated and this should be done honorably.

Once you invite a servant of God as a guest, one of the first things to cover for is their transport expenses. They are not trekking. If they are coming via a commercial vehicle, pay their transport fee; if they are coming via a private vehicle, cover their fueling expenses. If it is by flight, same goes. This is one of the first things to pay attention to. If they will need a lodge, it is your responsibility as well. You invited them.

Give them the best treatment you can. This is honour. If you cannot afford to take good care of a servant of God you intend to invite from another location due to transport expenses and all, look for another that is nearby and take good care of them.

Though not perfectly the same scenario, Apostle Paul talked about the church “sending him on his journey” (Romans 15:24; 1 Corinthians 16:6; 2 Corinthians 1:16; Titus 3:13), which has to do with covering his travel expenses. It is good to learn honourable ways to support those who bless you spiritually.

It is 100% between the minister and God to accept or reject an honorarium. You have no role here.

These words of our Lord highlighted by Paul remain cardinal:

1 Corinthians 9:14(NKJV)

Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.

Finally, I highlighted Paul’s thank-you letter to the church in Philippi in Part 2. He stressed something salient:

Philippians 4:18(NKJV)

Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.

When we honour God’s servants, we are honouring God and it is an act well pleasing to Him.

Blessings.

Victor Ibosiola © 2023

Antecedent parts: The Honorarium Series (1): What Did Jesus Teach about Honorarium? and The Honorarium Series (2): What Did Paul Teach about Honorarium?