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A leading publication found that some mega church pastors are mega millionaires. Their wealth often comes not just from church salaries, but from related activities like books, outside speaking, and sermon by-products. At least one notable pastor says he donates 100% of his extra income to charity. While these exceptional pastors may make news, most serve sacrificially. They want to avoid questions about their motives in ministry. Our Lord, the Good Shepherd, set the standard for those who serve his people as under-shepherds. In John 10:11, we read Jesus’ words: “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming…because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep [NLT).” As the Good Shepherd, Jesus loved us enough to die for our salvation. Now he calls and equips His under-shepherds to serve sacrificially. Most do not regard ministry as a pathway to wealth. Rather their passion is to rescue, nurture, and guide His people into Kingdom service.
