I have coveted no one's silver or gold or apparel. Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. Acts 20:33-34

One of the things I hate most is the subject of vocational ministers and money. To bring up the subject can seem like fishing for money. To neglect the subject is to ignore a topic that the Bible is unafraid to address. Since I have been a bit autobiographical going through a passage in which Paul was rather autobiographical, I’ll take a chance and do the same on this matter.

Those who know me know that I am not in the ministry for financial gain. When the church began in 1985, I worked full time, as did Paul, as a “tentmaker.” As the church grew and had the financial ability, I began receiving a small amount of remuneration. Little by little over a couple of years, I was able to stop my secular employment to serve full time as a pastor.

Many of you know where I live, in an older neighborhood of smaller homes. I bought one new car in my life, a 1976 Honda Civic. I have never made over $50,400 in any year of my life. I have always said there are two ways to be rich: have a lot of money, or have a low overhead. We have always been more than content to have a low overhead—due in large part to the fact that besides paying off our mortgage over twenty years ago, we haven’t purchased anything on credit in ‘I do not know how long.’

The elders and deacons have wanted to raise my salary on numerous occasions, but we have deferred such raises toward possible future retirement.

Like Paul, I can say with clear conscience, “I have coveted no one's silver or gold or apparel.”

Let us bear two more things in mind:

First, scripture does teach that churches compensate their pastors Read this short article.

Second, if and when Grace Bible Church needs to replace me, it will be impossible to secure a full-time pastor (especially in pricey Moorpark) for compensation anywhere near the meager amount I have been most content with.