1 Corinthians 9:11-12 (WEL) If we have sown in you spiritual things, is it any great thing if we reap from you material things? 12 If others partake of this right over you, shouldn’t we have a greater right? Nevertheless, we didn’t take this right; instead, we endure all things, lest we should hinder the Good News about Christ.
V11 If we have sown in you spiritual things, is it any great thing if we reap from you material things?
What are spiritually sown things? First, the Gospel and second, the worldview, lifestyle, beliefs, rules, and promises of the Christian faith. See Romans 1:11.
The material things refer to financial, physical, and emotional needs (Galatians 6:2 and Hebrews 3:13) but particularly financial needs.
If we are able, we should supply spiritual things and material things as needed to full-time church workers.
V12 If others partake of this right over you, shouldn’t we have a greater right? Nevertheless, we didn’t take this right; instead, we endure all things, lest we should hinder the Good News about Christ.
Others refers to Apostles, evangelists, deacons, and deaconesses, and other Christian workers.
Why didn’t Paul ask and receive physical supplies? Because he wanted to give an example. Paul did this deliberately because some had accused him of only seeking financial gain.
Society may have thought that these preachers are in it only for the money, so Paul and his team asked and took nothing.
We learn:
- If we can meet other believers’ needs, then we should.
- Be aware of the society we live in and do without something if it might hinder the Gospel.
Questions:
- Are you aware of others’ needs and supplying them if you are able to?
- How is your Christian reputation in the area you live in?