1 Corinthians 9:14
Verse
Context
The Rights of an Apostle
13Do you not know that those who work in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of its offerings?14In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.15But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Even so hath the Lord ordained - This is evidently a reference to our Lord's ordination, Mat 10:10 : The workman is worthy of his meat. And Luk 10:7 : For the laborer is worthy of his hire. And in both places it is the preacher of the Gospel of whom he is speaking. It was a maxim among the Jews, "that the inhabitants of a town where a wise man had made his abode should support him, because he had forsaken the world and its pleasures to study those things by which he might please God and be useful to men." See an ordinance to this effect in the tract Shabbath, fol. 114.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Even so--The only inference to be drawn from this passage is, not that the Christian ministry is of a sacrificial character as the Jewish priesthood, but simply, that as the latter was supported by the contributions of the people, so should the former. The stipends of the clergy were at first from voluntary offerings at the Lord's Supper. At the love-feast preceding it every believer, according to his ability, offered a gift; and when the expense of the table had been defrayed, the bishop laid aside a portion for himself, the presbyters, and deacons; and with the rest relieved widows, orphans, confessors, and the poor generally [TERTULLIAN, Apology, 39]. The stipend was in proportion to the dignity and merits of the several bishops, presbyters, and deacons [CYPRIAN, c. 4, ep. 6]. preach . . . gospel--plainly marked as the duty of the Christian minister, in contrast to the ministering about sacrifices (Greek) and waiting at the altar of the Jewish priesthood and Levites (Co1 9:13). If the Lord's Supper were a sacrifice (as the Mass is supposed to be), this fourteenth verse would certainly have been worded so, to answer to Co1 9:13. Note the same Lord Christ "ordains" the ordinances in the Old and in the New Testaments (Mat 10:10; Luk 10:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I have used none of these things,.... Either none of these arguments or reasons, for a minister's maintenance, taken from the reason of things, the law of Moses, the examples of the priests and Levites, and the order and appointment of Christ, in favour of himself, and that he might be provided for by them accordingly; or none of the things he had a right to do as other apostles, as to eat and drink at the public expense, to lead about with him a sister, a wife, had he any, and to forbear working with his own hands: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me; it was not on his own account that he gave these strong reasons, urged these instances, and so undeniably proved this point, that ministers should be maintained by the people; and this he says to prevent what some might be ready enough to suggest, that though the apostle had as yet took nothing of the church at Corinth, it was plain, that for the time to come, he meant to do it; and therefore had written these things with such a view, to make way for his after supply from them. This he denies, and gives his reason for it, for it were better for me to die; through want, with famine, could he be supplied no other way, than to take the least farthing of them: or than that any man should make my glorying void; meaning not so much his inward pleasure, joy, and satisfaction in preaching the Gospel freely, it being more blessed to give than to receive; but his boasting or glorying, not before God, but against the false apostles; that he had never taken anything of the church at Corinth for preaching, nor never would, when they had insinuated he preached for gain, and by artful methods had got their money, and drained their purses.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:14 the Lord ordered: See Matt 10:10; Luke 10:7; see also Gal 6:6; 1 Tim 5:17-18.
1 Corinthians 9:14
The Rights of an Apostle
13Do you not know that those who work in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of its offerings?14In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.15But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
His and His Alone
By K.P. Yohannan11K53:59Living For ChristJER 9:1LAM 1:12MAT 6:22MAT 9:36MAT 16:241CO 9:141TI 6:10In this sermon, the speaker addresses various topics such as the influence of media, the importance of reading the New Testament, and the power of one individual to make a difference. The speaker emphasizes the need to break free from sinful habits and to focus on living a life that reflects Jesus and his followers. The sermon also highlights the impact of one person's testimony in bringing light to a dark world. The speaker shares personal experiences and encourages listeners to surrender their lives to Christ and be willing to go wherever he leads them.
The Year That We Flourish
By Carter Conlon1.9K45:16PSA 133:1MRK 9:241CO 1:31CO 6:181CO 8:91CO 9:141CO 10:121CO 13:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity, faith, purity, forgiveness, and selflessness in the church community. It calls for a commitment to flourishing in God's way, walking in the power of the Holy Spirit, and living for the benefit of others. The speaker urges the congregation to learn from past mistakes, embrace God's promises, and be faithful in prayer and service.
Tent Making 1 Cor 9
By George Verwer1.2K1:13:49Tent MakingEXO 20:12DEU 25:4MAT 6:33ACT 20:35ROM 10:141CO 9:142TH 3:101TI 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following five principles in preaching the word of God. These principles include being enthusiastic, learning the product thoroughly, practicing effective communication techniques, demonstrating sincerity, and considering the needs of the person being spoken to. The speaker encourages the audience to believe that God will provide for their needs and make their prayer meetings more effective. They also emphasize the importance of sincerity in conveying the message and suggest using phrases and presentations that effectively communicate the message. The speaker shares personal experiences of encountering difficult individuals but believes that sincerity can still make an impact.
Missions and the Local Church
By William Yuille57757:09MissionsMAT 6:33ACT 13:2ACT 13:261CO 9:141CO 9:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of being involved in missions and supporting missionaries. He shares personal experiences of having missionaries stay in his home and the impact it had on his family. The speaker emphasizes the need for churches to actively engage in mission work and teaches that it is a biblical principle. He also suggests that if individuals are not comfortable teaching about missions, there are resources available to help educate and train them.
The Question of Finance
By Watchman Nee0Financial IndependenceFaith in GodMAT 6:19LUK 10:7ACT 20:34ROM 8:281CO 9:142CO 8:152CO 11:9GAL 1:10PHP 4:191TI 5:17Watchman Nee addresses the critical issue of finance in ministry, emphasizing that the early apostles relied solely on God's provision rather than human support. He argues that true faith in God eliminates financial concerns, allowing workers to focus on their spiritual mission without being influenced by monetary needs. Nee warns against the dangers of seeking financial security from men, which can compromise the spiritual integrity of the work. He encourages a life of faith where workers trust God for their needs, asserting that financial independence from human sources fosters a deeper relationship with God. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the biblical principle of living by faith, where God's servants depend entirely on Him for their sustenance.
Those Who Serve
By William MacDonald0Church LeadershipServanthood1TI 5:22MAT 6:1MRK 12:44ROM 13:4ROM 16:11CO 9:14GAL 6:6PHP 4:181TI 3:82TI 2:17William MacDonald emphasizes the role of deacons in the church as servants who fulfill various ministries, highlighting their qualifications and the importance of integrity and faithfulness in their service. He explains that deacons must be grave, honest, and not greedy, and that their wives or deaconesses should also embody these qualities. MacDonald also discusses the rewards for deacons, which include a good standing among believers and boldness in faith, while stressing the need for proper financial stewardship within the church. He concludes by noting that the New Testament outlines only two roles in church leadership: bishops and deacons, rejecting the notion of a clergy class. The sermon underscores the simplicity and integrity required in church finances, advocating for self-supporting local congregations.
The Christian Life
By David Shelby Corlett0GEN 14:19MAL 3:10MAT 22:21JHN 14:16JHN 17:14ACT 1:8ACT 17:24ROM 8:2ROM 8:41CO 6:191CO 9:141CO 10:311CO 16:22CO 6:142CO 9:7GAL 5:22GAL 6:10EPH 1:13EPH 5:331TH 5:221TI 2:1TIT 2:12HEB 10:241PE 2:131PE 4:102PE 3:18David Shelby Corlett preaches on the standard of Christian living, emphasizing the importance of living upright, sober, and godly lives according to the moral law revealed in the Scriptures, seeking to glorify God in all aspects of life. Christians are called to glorify God in their bodies by recognizing that they are temples of the Holy Spirit, refraining from practices that do not honor God, and living in a way that reflects God's glory. The obligations for Christian growth include developing holiness, Christian virtues, and actively manifesting these in daily life, while the means for growth involve attending public worship, engaging in devotional exercises, and serving in Christian ministry.
From the Death of Bishop Asbury to the Close of the General Conference of 1816
By Nathan Bangs0ACT 20:281CO 9:141TI 3:22TI 2:15TIT 1:7JAS 1:271PE 5:2Nathan Bangs preaches about the challenges faced by the Methodist Episcopal Church, including controversies with the British connection over missions in Canada, the need for additional bishops, and the importance of providing adequate support for the ministry to prevent locations and ensure qualified ministers. The conference addresses the issue of locations, partial locations, and the lack of ministerial qualifications, recommending measures to strengthen the itinerancy and secure a succession of holy and zealous ministers. The report also emphasizes the importance of providing support for distressed preachers, their families, and widows, as well as establishing a fund for their welfare.
1 Thessalonians 2:9-12
By St. John Chrysostom01CO 9:14John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of enduring all toils in the ministry without feeling burdened, following the example of Paul who worked diligently to not be a burden to his disciples. Chrysostom emphasizes the need for teachers to behave holily, righteously, and unblamably towards their followers, exhorting and encouraging them to walk worthily of God's kingdom and glory. He reminds believers that their faith should not be moved by afflictions, as they are appointed to endure trials. Chrysostom encourages believers to imitate the steadfastness of the early Church in the face of persecution, highlighting the importance of standing firm in faith.
(The Full Gospel) 9. Are You Serving God or Money?
By Zac Poonen0MAT 6:24LUK 14:33LUK 16:13ACT 3:6ACT 4:351CO 9:141TI 6:9REV 2:14Zac Poonen delivers a powerful sermon on the impossibility of serving both God and money, emphasizing that loving God means hating money and vice versa. He highlights the Pharisees' error of doctrinal purity without genuine love for God, warning believers against the subtle trap of loving money while claiming to love God. Poonen stresses the need for a radical shift in affection, illustrating that just as a new love can expel an old one, loving Jesus wholeheartedly will naturally lead to despising money. He challenges believers to examine their hearts honestly, acknowledging that a love for money can lead to ruin and destruction, emphasizing the importance of being faithful and righteous in handling finances.
A Bondslave of Christ
By Zac Poonen0MAT 20:28JHN 13:16ACT 20:33ROM 1:1ROM 6:221CO 9:142CO 11:7PHP 2:52PE 1:4Zac Poonen preaches on the concept of being a bondslave of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the difference between a servant and a slave. He highlights that under the new covenant, God seeks bondslaves who serve Him without expecting any salary or gifts from others. Poonen stresses the importance of being freed from conscious sin in the past, experiencing progressive sanctification in the present, and looking forward to eternal life in the future as true bondslaves of God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Even so hath the Lord ordained - This is evidently a reference to our Lord's ordination, Mat 10:10 : The workman is worthy of his meat. And Luk 10:7 : For the laborer is worthy of his hire. And in both places it is the preacher of the Gospel of whom he is speaking. It was a maxim among the Jews, "that the inhabitants of a town where a wise man had made his abode should support him, because he had forsaken the world and its pleasures to study those things by which he might please God and be useful to men." See an ordinance to this effect in the tract Shabbath, fol. 114.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Even so--The only inference to be drawn from this passage is, not that the Christian ministry is of a sacrificial character as the Jewish priesthood, but simply, that as the latter was supported by the contributions of the people, so should the former. The stipends of the clergy were at first from voluntary offerings at the Lord's Supper. At the love-feast preceding it every believer, according to his ability, offered a gift; and when the expense of the table had been defrayed, the bishop laid aside a portion for himself, the presbyters, and deacons; and with the rest relieved widows, orphans, confessors, and the poor generally [TERTULLIAN, Apology, 39]. The stipend was in proportion to the dignity and merits of the several bishops, presbyters, and deacons [CYPRIAN, c. 4, ep. 6]. preach . . . gospel--plainly marked as the duty of the Christian minister, in contrast to the ministering about sacrifices (Greek) and waiting at the altar of the Jewish priesthood and Levites (Co1 9:13). If the Lord's Supper were a sacrifice (as the Mass is supposed to be), this fourteenth verse would certainly have been worded so, to answer to Co1 9:13. Note the same Lord Christ "ordains" the ordinances in the Old and in the New Testaments (Mat 10:10; Luk 10:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But I have used none of these things,.... Either none of these arguments or reasons, for a minister's maintenance, taken from the reason of things, the law of Moses, the examples of the priests and Levites, and the order and appointment of Christ, in favour of himself, and that he might be provided for by them accordingly; or none of the things he had a right to do as other apostles, as to eat and drink at the public expense, to lead about with him a sister, a wife, had he any, and to forbear working with his own hands: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me; it was not on his own account that he gave these strong reasons, urged these instances, and so undeniably proved this point, that ministers should be maintained by the people; and this he says to prevent what some might be ready enough to suggest, that though the apostle had as yet took nothing of the church at Corinth, it was plain, that for the time to come, he meant to do it; and therefore had written these things with such a view, to make way for his after supply from them. This he denies, and gives his reason for it, for it were better for me to die; through want, with famine, could he be supplied no other way, than to take the least farthing of them: or than that any man should make my glorying void; meaning not so much his inward pleasure, joy, and satisfaction in preaching the Gospel freely, it being more blessed to give than to receive; but his boasting or glorying, not before God, but against the false apostles; that he had never taken anything of the church at Corinth for preaching, nor never would, when they had insinuated he preached for gain, and by artful methods had got their money, and drained their purses.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:14 the Lord ordered: See Matt 10:10; Luke 10:7; see also Gal 6:6; 1 Tim 5:17-18.