The Rev. Dr. John Hatcher

The Bible says that ministers who work hard at the Word of God and teaching that Word are worthy of double honor (1 Timothy 5:17).

This admonition from Archbishop Paul came into a sharp focus as I prepared to speak at the Pastor's Appreciation Banquet for my friend, The Rev. Richard Green of New Covenant Metropolitan Church. The Focus on the Family gang has promoted October as Clergy Appreciation Month. The word “honor” begged for my study. Honor means the advantage given by believers one to another instead of claiming it for self. The very believers who receive the ministered Word should give ministers who work hard at the Word an “advantage.”

We understand “honor” in the Fifth Commandment: honor your father and mother that your days may be long upon the land. Honor involves respect, deference, appreciation, and loyalty. What child can say he has honored his parents if he has not been loyal over the years?

Nevertheless, to lock on quickly to the meaning of honor, ask some of your square dancing friends. They know that the command to “honor your partner” means to bow to your partner. Bow down!

Additionally, the word “double” intrigued me. The Scripture is clear: ministers who work hard at the Word are not worthy of single honor, but double honor. I did not write this down. The Apostle Paul wrote it and if you believe the Bible, he wrote it under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Double. It does not take Jethro or a rocket scientist to figure out what “double” means. Just a few hints, however: When you say “make it a double scoop,” you are looking for an ice cream cone with two dollops of ice cream. If the pretty lady gives you just one, you reprove her by saying, “I asked for two scoops.” She then digs another and secures it atop the single scoop.

Now, baseball fans. A double play. I know little about sports and when I start with a sports illustration in my message, the crowd groans and laughs. I think I know this one, however. Pitcher throws the ball with a man on first. Batter hits the ball. The third baseman catches it after a bounce, throws it to second base; the second baseman throws it to first. Wallah! The announcer declares a double play. Two outs but with just one hit. Two! In Spanish, “Dos.”

Back to the Bible. Paul says the minister who works hard at the Word deserves double honor. I have a sneaking feeling that many congregations do not even give their minister a single honor. And they call us the Bible Belt!

Got a suggestion for you. Figure out a way to honor your minister, priest, pastor, or rabbi. Then, double it. You'll be Biblical. Besides, you may just encourage him to triple his efforts on your behalf.

The Rev. Dr. John Hatcher is pastor of River's Edge Community Church in Fayetteville.

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