14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
14 In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.
14 In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.
14 Along the same lines, the Master directed that those who spread the Message be supported by those who believe the Message.
14 Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.
14 In the same way, the Lord ordered that those who preach the Good News should be supported by those who benefit from it.
6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
6 Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.
6 One who is taught the word must share all good things with the one who teaches.
6 Be very sure now, you who have been trained to a self-sufficient maturity, that you enter into a generous common life with those who have trained you, sharing all the good things that you have and experience.
6 Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.
6 Those who are taught the word of God should provide for their teachers, sharing all good things with them.
(Read Galatians 6:6-11)
Many excuse themselves from the work of religion, though they may make a show, and profess it. They may impose upon others, yet they deceive themselves if they think to impose upon God, who knows their hearts as well as actions; and as he cannot be deceived, so he will not be mocked. Our present time is seed time; in the other world we shall reap as we sow now. As there are two sorts of sowing, one to the flesh, and the other to the Spirit, so will the reckoning be hereafter. Those who live a carnal, sensual life, must expect no other fruit from such a course than misery and ruin. But those who, under the guidance and influences of the Holy Spirit, live a life of faith in Christ, and abound in Christian graces, shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. We are all very apt to tire in duty, particularly in doing good. This we should carefully watch and guard against. Only to perseverance in well-doing is the reward promised. Here is an exhortation to all to do good in their places. We should take care to do good in our life-time, and make this the business of our lives. Especially when fresh occasions offer, and as far as our power reaches.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.
12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,
12 And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience.
12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,
12 Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance.
(Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15)
The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:14
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:1-14
(Read 1 Corinthians 9:1-14)
It is not new for a minister to meet with unkind returns for good-will to a people, and diligent and successful services among them. To the cavils of some, the apostle answers, so as to set forth himself as an example of self-denial, for the good of others. He had a right to marry as well as other apostles, and to claim what was needful for his wife, and his children if he had any, from the churches, without labouring with his own hands to get it. Those who seek to do our souls good, should have food provided for them. But he renounced his right, rather than hinder his success by claiming it. It is the people's duty to maintain their minister. He may wave his right, as Paul did; but those transgress a precept of Christ, who deny or withhold due support.