1 Corinthians 9:5–6: Do we have no right to take along a believing wife, as do also the other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working?
Therefore, as an apostle, Paul had the right to receive support from the people to whom he ministered. (The word power is used six times in this chapter, and means “authority, right.”) The apostle was the representative of Christ; he deserved to be welcomed and cared for. Paul was unmarried; but if he’d had a wife, she too would have had the right to be supported by the church. Peter was a married man (Mark 1:30), and his wife traveled with him. Paul had the same right, but he did not use it.
Paul also had the right to devote his full time to the ministry of the Word. He did not have to make tents. The other Apostles did not work to support themselves because they gave themselves completely to the ministry of the Word. 1
Application
- Read 1 Timothy 5:17-18. What are the marks of a pastor who rules well?
- How can you best assist your pastor who works like an ox to get the (food/grain) or the Word of God out to hungry people?
Thought to Share
A pastor is greatly blessed by those who work with him in giving out the Word. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, help me to encourage those who encourage me towards victory.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.