For we are not, as so many, peddling the word of God; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ. (2 Corinthians 2:17, NKJV)
As it was then, so it continues to be. Those who speak the pure gospel of Christ stand in contrast to the hucksters who make merchandise of the word of God, peddling their adulterated message of the gospel for personal advancement and material gain. Why would a church charge people a fee to hear the word of God? Some do. Why would a church charge a fee for the activities they offer? Church-sponsored activities that request fees to participate are not from the word of God, for if they were, they would be offered to the public “without money and without price” (Isa. 55:1). Truly, “by covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words” (2 Peter 2:3). We stand before God and answer to Him. Therefore, let us speak the word of God with sincerity of heart and clarity of words, not with diluted speech and polluted motives. May we never charge for what God offers freely: “And the Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Rev. 22:17).
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