They are to be paid from the tithes and offerings given in the church, just like the priests were supported from the tithes and offerings that were brought to the Tabernacle, and later to the Temple.

 

1 Timothy 5:17-18 says, “17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.  18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.”

 

1 Corinthians 9:6-14 says, “6 Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?  7 Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?  8 Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also?  9 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?  10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.  11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?  12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.  13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?   14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.”