Lesson 4797

 (Lesson 4797) (03-24-25) 1st Corinthians 9:8-17 

   “Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? 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? 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. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? 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. 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? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.” 

 

   In today’s quoter, Paul continued to defend the rights of those who teach the gospel to receive material support for their ministry. He referred to the Law of Moses, which says, "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain," to show that God’s concern was not just for animals but also to teach that workers deserve to benefit from their labor. Paul explained that those who sow spiritual seeds have the right to reap material things. However, he chose not to use that right for himself, so as not to hinder the gospel of Christ. He emphasized that preaching the gospel was a divine calling placed upon him, and he did it willingly, not for personal gain. Paul said that his reward was to offer the gospel freely without asserting his rights. His motivation was obedience to God’s call, not seeking compensation or recognition. ~