“The Labourer Is Worthy of His Hire”
101
It takes the very best talent to do this class of missionary work, and the
women who do it should receive a suitable amount for their work. But
because of the dearth of means, our sisters have received very little
pay, yet they have faithfully worked on, without any definite provision
being made for them. Less qualified workers, who are receiving in-
struction by precept and example, are paid one pound a week, out of
which they pay their board. But as yet the ministers’ wives have been
paid nothing.
I wish to create a fund for the payment of these devoted women
who are the most useful workers in giving Bible readings. I am also
led to say that we must educate more workers to give Bible readings. I
come right to the point. Will you consent to make me your steward,
entrusting me with a certain amount to be invested in educating and
sustaining workers, and also in helping to erect the humble meeting-
houses we have to build? I have invested means in every house of
worship save one which has been built by our people in Australia.
I think I have made the case plain. If you desire, I will send you a
half-yearly statement of how your money has been invested.
I have been determined to advance the work here, and to do this I
borrowed one thousand pounds from Africa. A few months ago this
loan fell due, but it has been extended for one year at four and a half
percent. I have also borrowed money from America at five and six
percent. I am not pressed to pay this money, but when it is called
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for, it must be paid. Those who lent it to me felt that it would be
safer in my possession than in the bank; but now some of them are
in straitened circumstances. One or two are widows, and they must
have their money sooner or later. I tell you this that you may know
why I ask you to help me to raise this fund to keep workers in the
field.—
Letter 83, 1899
.
When Spouses Work Together, Both Should Receive Remu-
neration—Again and again I have repeated the instruction the Lord
has given me concerning the opening of new fields, that our large cities
might hear the truths of the third Angel’s message....
The printed page cannot accomplish alone the work that the living
minister can do. He can explain the Scriptures to the people, praying
with them and appealing to them, and making effective the truths of the
Bible. Not merely one or two men are called to do this work, but many
men and women who have ability to preach and teach the Word....