Emphasis Preaching Journal

Paul made it a point to earn his own living wherever he went so he would not need to accept gratuities. If he bore in his body the marks of his sufferings, he also bore on his hands the marks of his toil. His hands were certainly hardened and calloused by the daily labor of cutting and sewing the heavy cloth needed to make tents. Today the complexities of church organization require most ministers and priests to serve in their office full time and to be supported by their congregations.