1 Corinthians 9:11

KJV

If we have sown unto you spiritual things, [is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?

KJV (with Strong's)

If {G1487} we {G2249} have sown {G4687} unto you {G5213} spiritual things {G4152}, is it a great thing {G3173} if {G1487} we {G2249} shall reap {G2325} your {G5216} carnal things {G4559}?

Complete Jewish Bible

If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you?

Berean Standard Bible

If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much for us to reap a material harvest from you?

American Standard Version

If we sowed unto you spiritual things, is it a great matter if we shall reap your carnal things?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul employs a rhetorical question to assert the inherent fairness and biblical principle of reciprocity: if he and his fellow ministers have imparted invaluable spiritual truths to the Corinthian believers, it is not an excessive or burdensome request for them to receive material support in return. This verse encapsulates a foundational argument for the legitimate right of those who dedicate their lives to Gospel ministry to be sustained by the communities they serve, highlighting the disproportionate value of spiritual blessings over temporal provisions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [1 Corinthians 9](/1_corinthians/9 "1 Corinthians 9 - Paul's Apostolic Rights") is a crucial chapter in Paul's defense of his apostolic authority and, by extension, the rights of all those who minister the Gospel. Following his discussions on Christian liberty and responsible conduct in [1 Corinthians 8](/1_corinthians/8 "1 Corinthians 8 - Food Offered to Idols"), Paul shifts to address specific criticisms or misunderstandings regarding his own ministry. He systematically argues for the right of ministers to receive financial support, using various analogies: a soldier receives pay, a farmer eats from his crop, and a shepherd partakes of the flock's milk ([1 Corinthians 9:7](/1_corinthians/9-7 "1 Corinthians 9:7 - Rights of Ministers")). He even appeals to Old Testament law, citing the command not to muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain ([Deuteronomy 25:4](/deuteronomy/25-4 "Deuteronomy 25:4 - Do Not Muzzle an Ox")), to demonstrate that this principle is divinely established. While asserting this right, Paul makes it clear that he personally chose not to exercise it in Corinth, so as not to hinder the spread of the Gospel ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "1 Corinthians 9:12 - Paul's Refusal of Support")). This rhetorical question in [1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Reciprocity in Ministry") serves as the logical culmination of his arguments, emphasizing the reasonableness of the exchange.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a diverse community, grappling with internal divisions, ethical issues, and challenges to apostolic authority. In the Greco-Roman world, it was common for philosophers, rhetoricians, and religious teachers to receive support from their disciples or patrons. However, there was also a prevailing suspicion of those who charged for their teaching, with some viewing it as a sign of intellectual prostitution rather than genuine wisdom. Paul, as an apostle, navigated this complex cultural landscape. His Jewish background would have also informed his perspective, as the Mosaic Law prescribed specific provisions for the Levites and priests who served in the temple, ensuring their sustenance through the offerings of the people ([Numbers 18:21-24](/numbers/18-21-24 "Numbers 18:21-24 - Support for Levites")). Paul's argument draws on both common sense and scriptural precedent to establish a legitimate basis for ministerial support, contrasting it with any perception of greed or exploitation.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes within [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians "The First Letter to the Corinthians") and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it underscores the **value and authority of apostolic ministry**, asserting that those who labor in the Gospel are worthy of honor and provision. Secondly, it highlights the principle of **reciprocity in the Christian community**, where spiritual blessings imparted by ministers should be met with material support from those who benefit. Thirdly, it draws a clear **distinctiion between "spiritual things" and "carnal things,"** emphasizing the eternal and transformative nature of the Gospel over the temporal and physical needs of daily life. While "carnal" often carries negative connotations elsewhere in Paul's letters (e.g., [1 Corinthians 3:3](/1_corinthians/3-3 "1 Corinthians 3:3 - Carnal Christians")), here it refers neutrally to earthly, material sustenance. Finally, the broader context of [1 Corinthians 9](/1_corinthians/9 "1 Corinthians 9 - Paul's Example of Self-Denial") also showcases Paul's theme of **self-sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel**, as he willingly foregoes his legitimate rights to ensure the unhindered spread of Christ's message.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **sown (Greek, _speírō'_):** This verb, G4687, means "to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)." In this context, it is used figuratively to describe the act of imparting spiritual truths, the Gospel, and Christian teaching to others. It evokes the image of a farmer carefully distributing seeds, expecting a future harvest.
* **spiritual things (Greek, _pneumatikós'_):** This adjective, G4152, derived from _pneuma_ (spirit), signifies "non-carnal, i.e., (humanly) ethereal (as opposed to gross), or (dæmoniacally) a spirit (concretely), or (divinely) supernatural, regenerate, religious." Here, it refers to the profound, life-giving truths of the Gospel, the spiritual gifts, and the divine wisdom imparted through ministry, which are of eternal value.
* **reap (Greek, _therízō'_):** This verb, G2325, means "to harvest." It is the natural consequence of sowing. In this verse, it refers to receiving the benefits or fruits of one's labor, specifically material support.
* **carnal things (Greek, _sarkikós'_):** This adjective, G4559, from _sarx_ (flesh), means "pertaining to flesh, i.e., (by extension) bodily, temporal, or (by implication) animal, unregenerate." In the context of [1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Spiritual and Carnal Exchange"), it refers to earthly, material provisions and sustenance necessary for physical life, contrasting with the spiritual realm. It does not carry the negative connotation of sinfulness often associated with "flesh" in other Pauline passages.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If we have sown unto you spiritual things,"**: This opening clause establishes the premise of Paul's argument. "We" refers to Paul and his fellow apostles/ministers who have invested deeply in the Corinthian believers, imparting the Gospel, teaching them God's word, and providing spiritual guidance. The "spiritual things" are the invaluable, eternal truths and blessings of salvation, sanctification, and divine wisdom that transcend any material value. This highlights the profound and transformative nature of their ministry.
* **"[is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?"**: This is the rhetorical question at the heart of the verse. Paul asks if it is an excessive, unreasonable, or burdensome request for ministers to receive material support ("carnal things") from those to whom they have given such immense spiritual blessings. The implied answer is a resounding "No!" The "carnal things" refer to physical necessities like food, shelter, and financial provision. The question underscores the disproportionate value: spiritual blessings are immeasurable and eternal, while material provisions are temporal and comparatively small.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in [1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Paul's Argument for Support") to strengthen his argument. Foremost is the **Rhetorical Question**, "is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?" This device is not meant to elicit an answer but to make an undeniable point. By posing it as a question, Paul engages his audience, prompting them to consider the obvious truth that such an exchange is not only fair but minimal given the immense value of what has been imparted. Secondly, Paul uses a powerful **Metaphor** drawn from agriculture: "sowing" spiritual things and "reaping" carnal things. This vivid imagery of a farmer's labor and subsequent harvest provides a relatable and universally understood illustration of cause and effect, effort and reward, directly applying it to the spiritual realm of ministry and the material realm of provision. Finally, there is a clear **Antithesis** or **Contrast** established between "spiritual things" (_pneumatika_) and "carnal things" (_sarkika_). This juxtaposition highlights the distinct nature of what is given (eternal, divine, life-transforming) versus what is received (temporal, earthly, physical sustenance), thereby emphasizing the immense value of the former and the comparatively small nature of the latter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - The Principle of Reciprocity") establishes a fundamental theological principle regarding the support of those engaged in full-time Gospel ministry. It underscores that the work of proclaiming and teaching God's Word is not merely a volunteer activity but a sacred calling worthy of sustenance. The verse teaches that spiritual labor, which yields eternal fruit in the lives of believers, creates a legitimate claim for material provision. This is not about entitlement, but about a divinely ordained principle of reciprocity, recognizing the immense value and transformative power of spiritual ministry. It challenges believers to value the spiritual nourishment they receive and to honor those who provide it by ensuring their material needs are met, thereby participating in the work of the Gospel through their giving. This principle ensures that ministers can devote themselves fully to their calling without being unduly burdened by worldly concerns, allowing the Gospel to advance unhindered.

* [Luke 10:7](/luke/10-7 "Luke 10:7 - The Worker is Worthy of His Hire")
* [Galatians 6:6](/galatians/6-6 "Galatians 6:6 - Share with Your Instructor")
* [Romans 15:27](/romans/15-27 "Romans 15:27 - Reciprocity of Spiritual and Material Blessings")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The principle articulated in [1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Supporting Ministry Today") remains profoundly relevant for the church today. It serves as a foundational biblical warrant for the financial support of pastors, missionaries, evangelists, and all who dedicate their lives to the full-time proclamation and teaching of God's Word. For believers, this verse calls for a grateful heart that recognizes the immeasurable value of spiritual instruction and responds with generous material provision. It challenges us to consider how we are stewarding our resources to ensure that those who feed us spiritually are adequately cared for, allowing them to focus on their ministry without distraction. For those in ministry, it is a reminder of the profound spiritual investment they are making, which far outweighs any material return, yet also affirms their legitimate right to be supported by the community they serve. It encourages ministers to preach the truth boldly, trusting that God will move His people to provide. Ultimately, this verse fosters a healthy, interdependent relationship within the body of Christ, where spiritual blessings flow freely, and material needs are met with cheerful generosity, all for the advancement of the Gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I personally value the spiritual teaching and nourishment I receive from those who minister God's Word?**
* **In what ways am I currently contributing to the material support of those who sow spiritual things in my life or in the broader church?**
* **What might it look like to increase my generosity or intentionality in supporting Gospel ministry, in light of the immense spiritual blessings I have received?**
* **If I am in ministry, how does this verse shape my perspective on both my right to support and my willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "carnal things" in this verse?**

Answer: In [1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Meaning of Carnal Things"), "carnal things" (Greek: _sarkika_) refers to earthly, material provisions and necessities for daily life, such as food, shelter, and financial support. It is used in contrast to "spiritual things" (Greek: _pneumatika_), which are the divine, eternal truths of the Gospel. Unlike other contexts where "carnal" can denote sinfulness or a fleshly mindset (e.g., [Romans 8:7](/romans/8-7 "Romans 8:7 - The Carnal Mind")), here it simply means physical or temporal, without any negative moral connotation. Paul is arguing for the legitimate right of ministers to receive material sustenance from those they serve, in exchange for the invaluable spiritual blessings they impart.

**Is Paul demanding payment for his ministry?**

Answer: No, Paul is not demanding payment for his ministry. Throughout [1 Corinthians 9](/1_corinthians/9 "1 Corinthians 9 - Paul's Example"), Paul rigorously defends his apostolic right to receive financial support, using various examples and Old Testament law to establish this principle. However, he explicitly states that he chose *not* to exercise this right in Corinth ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "1 Corinthians 9:12 - Paul's Refusal of Support")), so as not to put any obstacle in the way of the Gospel. His purpose in [1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Paul's Right, Not Demand") is to establish the *principle* that those who minister the Gospel have a legitimate and divinely sanctioned right to be supported, even if he personally waives that right for strategic reasons. He is setting a precedent for others and for the church's responsibility.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Corinthians 9:11](/1_corinthians/9-11 "1 Corinthians 9:11 - Christ's Example of Sowing") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Himself. Christ is the supreme sower of "spiritual things," having come into the world to sow the seeds of the Kingdom of God, the truth of salvation, and the very life of God into humanity. His entire earthly ministry was a profound act of spiritual sowing, culminating in His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where He gave His "carnal" body and blood as the ultimate seed for the spiritual harvest of humanity's redemption ([John 12:24](/john/12-24 "John 12:24 - The Grain of Wheat")). He perfectly embodied the principle that the laborer is worthy of his hire, yet He often had "nowhere to lay His head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")), demonstrating a profound self-emptying (_kenosis_) for the sake of His mission. While He received material support from some ([Luke 8:1-3](/luke/8-1-3 "Luke 8:1-3 - Women Who Supported Jesus")), His focus was always on imparting eternal life. Ministers today, in their own spiritual sowing, participate in Christ's ongoing mission, sharing the spiritual riches of His Gospel. The church's support of these ministers, therefore, becomes an act of valuing Christ's spiritual work through them, recognizing that the "carnal things" given are a small return for the immeasurable "spiritual things" received through the one who "sowed" Himself for our eternal gain.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 15:27

It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.

Galatians 6:6

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

2 Corinthians 11:15

Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Matthew 10:10

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

2 Kings 5:13

And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, [if] the prophet had bid thee [do some] great thing, wouldest thou not have done [it]? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?

Malachi 3:8

Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.

Malachi 3:9

Ye [are] cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, [even] this whole nation.