1 Corinthians 9:14

King James Version:

(The Lord speaking is red text)

Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.

Complete Jewish Bible:

In the same way, the Lord directed that those who proclaim the Good News should get their living from the Good News.

Berean Standard Bible:

In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.

American Standard Version:

Even so did the Lord ordain that they that proclaim the gospel should live of the gospel.

KJV with Strong’s Numbers:

Even{G2532} so{G3779} hath{G1299} the Lord{G2962} ordained{G1299} that they which preach{G2605} the gospel{G2098} should live{G2198} of{G1537} the gospel{G2098}.

Cross-References (KJV):

Matthew 10:10

  • Nor scrip for [your] journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.

1 Timothy 5:17

  • ¶ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

1 Timothy 5:18

  • For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer [is] worthy of his reward.

1 Corinthians 9:4

  • Have we not power to eat and to drink?

Galatians 6:6

  • Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

Luke 10:7

  • And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.

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Commentary for 1 Corinthians 9:14

1 Corinthians 9:14 is a verse in the New Testament where the Apostle Paul is addressing the church in Corinth regarding the rights of apostolic ministers. The broader context of the chapter deals with the question of whether Christian ministers should be compensated for their work in preaching the gospel. Paul argues that just as workers in other professions are paid for their labor, so too should those who preach the gospel have the right to earn their living from it.

In this verse, Paul is emphasizing that this principle is not merely his own opinion but is an ordinance from the Lord. He is likely referencing the Old Testament precedent where priests and Levites were supported by the tithes and offerings of the people (Numbers 18:21, Deuteronomy 14:29). Paul is making a case for the legitimacy of financial support for those engaged in full-time ministry, ensuring that preachers can focus on their spiritual duties without the distraction of secular work.

Historically, this verse reflects the early Christian community's efforts to establish norms for supporting church leaders. It also highlights the tension between the expectation that the gospel should be shared freely and the practical need for those who devote their lives to this task to receive sustenance. Paul's argument serves to uphold the dignity of ministerial work and to prevent the church from taking advantage of those who serve it. The verse underscores the importance of balance between spiritual service and material support, a principle that continues to be relevant in discussions about church ministry and the stewardship of resources.

*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model

Strong's Numbers and Definitions:

Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)

  1. Strong's Number: G2532
    There are 5212 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: καί
    Transliteration: kaí
    Pronunciation: kahee
    Description: apparently, a primary particle, having a copulative and sometimes also a cumulative force; and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words:--and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet.
  2. Strong's Number: G3779
    There are 206 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: οὕτω
    Transliteration: hoútō
    Pronunciation: hoo'-toce
    Description: adverb from οὗτος; in this way (referring to what precedes or follows):--after that, after (in) this manner, as, even (so), for all that, like(-wise), no more, on this fashion(-wise), so (in like manner), thus, what.
  3. Strong's Number: G1299
    There are 16 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: διατάσσω
    Transliteration: diatássō
    Pronunciation: dee-at-as'-so
    Description: from διά and τάσσω; to arrange thoroughly, i.e. (specially) institute, prescribe, etc.:--appoint, command, give, (set in) order, ordain.
  4. Strong's Number: G2962
    There are 687 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: κύριος
    Transliteration: kýrios
    Pronunciation: koo'-ree-os
    Description: from (supremacy); supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller; by implication, Master (as a respectful title):-- God, Lord, master, Sir.
  5. Strong's Number: G2605
    There are 17 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: καταγγέλλω
    Transliteration: katangéllō
    Pronunciation: kat-ang-gel'-lo
    Description: from κατά and the base of ἄγγελος; to proclaim, promulgate:--declare, preach, shew, speak of, teach.
  6. Strong's Number: G2098
    There are 74 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: εὐαγγέλιον
    Transliteration: euangélion
    Pronunciation: yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on
    Description: from the same as εὐαγγελίζω; a good message, i.e. the gospel:--gospel.
  7. Strong's Number: G2198
    There are 127 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: ζάω
    Transliteration: záō
    Pronunciation: dzah'-o
    Description: a primary verb; to live (literally or figuratively):--life(-time), (a-)live(-ly), quick.
  8. Strong's Number: G1537
    There are 761 instances of this translation in the Bible
    Lemma: ἐκ
    Transliteration: ek
    Pronunciation: ex
    Description: a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause; literal or figurative; direct or remote):--after, among, X are, at, betwixt(-yond), by (the means of), exceedingly, (+ abundantly above), for(- th), from (among, forth, up), + grudgingly, + heartily, X heavenly, X hereby, + very highly, in, …ly, (because, by reason) of, off (from), on, out among (from, of), over, since, X thenceforth, through, X unto, X vehemently, with(-out). Often used in composition, with the same general import; often of completion.