(The Lord speaking is red text)
Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
In the same way, the Lord directed that those who proclaim the Good News should get their living from the Good News.
In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.
Even so did the Lord ordain that they that proclaim the gospel should live of the gospel.
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}.
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
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)