Luke 10:7

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} in {G1722} the same {G846} house {G3614} remain {G3306}, eating {G2068} and {G2532} drinking {G4095} such things as {G3844} they {G846} give {G3844}: for {G1063} the labourer {G2040} is {G2076} worthy {G514} of his {G846} hire {G3408}. Go {G3327} not {G3361} from {G1537} house {G3614} to {G1519} house {G3614}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Stay in that same house, eating and drinking what they offer, for a worker deserves his wages — don’t move about from house to house.

Berean Standard Bible

Stay at the same house, eating and drinking whatever you are offered. For the worker is worthy of his wages. Do not move around from house to house.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 10:7 provides specific instructions from Jesus to the seventy (or seventy-two) disciples He sent out on a mission, emphasizing their complete reliance on divine provision and the hospitality of those they ministered to. It instructs them to remain in one house, accepting the sustenance offered, and articulates the foundational principle that those who labor for the gospel are worthy of their support, thereby discouraging any appearance of greed or distraction from their spiritual task.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is part of Jesus' detailed commissioning of the seventy (or seventy-two) disciples in [Luke 10:1-12](/luke/10-1-12 "Luke 10:1-12 - The Sending of the Seventy"). Following His similar instructions to the twelve apostles in [Luke 9:1-6](/luke/9-1-6 "Luke 9:1-6 - The Sending of the Twelve"), Jesus expands His evangelistic outreach. The immediate verses ([Luke 10:2-6](/luke/10-2-6 "Luke 10:2-6 - Instructions for the Mission")) preceding this command include directives to pray for more laborers, to go out as "lambs among wolves," to carry no purse or bag, and to greet only those who welcome them with peace. Verse 7 builds directly on the expectation of hospitality, providing specific guidance on how the disciples should conduct themselves once welcomed into a home, particularly concerning their sustenance and lodging. The subsequent verses ([Luke 10:8-12](/luke/10-8-12 "Luke 10:8-12 - Consequences of Rejection")) detail the message to be proclaimed—"The kingdom of God has come near to you!"—and the severe consequences for towns that reject their message.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Judea and Galilee, hospitality was a deeply ingrained cultural value and a moral imperative, especially towards travelers and those on religious missions. Inns were scarce and often disreputable, making private homes the primary source of lodging. Travelers, particularly those without means, relied on the generosity of strangers. The instruction to "remain in the same house" and "Go not from house to house" was crucial for several reasons: it prevented the disciples from appearing to be exploitative, seeking better accommodations, or exhibiting a lack of contentment, which would undermine their spiritual authority and the sincerity of their message. The concept of a "labourer being worthy of his hire" was a well-understood proverb in the ancient world, affirming the right of those who work to receive compensation for their efforts, whether in agriculture, trade, or, in this case, spiritual service.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 10:7 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Provision and Dependence**, teaching disciples to trust God for their daily needs rather than relying on personal resources or worldly anxieties, a theme echoed in [Luke 12:22-34](/luke/12-22-34 "Luke 12:22-34 - Do Not Worry"). Secondly, the passage highlights the **Value of Ministry and the Right to Support**, establishing a theological principle that those who dedicate themselves to the proclamation of the [kingdom of God](/luke/10-9 "Luke 10:9 - The Kingdom of God") are entitled to material sustenance from the community they serve. This principle is foundational for understanding the support of ministers throughout Christian history. Thirdly, it emphasizes **Simplicity and Focus on Mission**, instructing the disciples to avoid distractions, the appearance of greed, or time-wasting in seeking better lodging, ensuring their singular focus remains on healing the sick and proclaiming the gospel, as commanded in [Luke 10:9](/luke/10-9 "Luke 10:9 - Heal the Sick and Proclaim the Kingdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **remain (Greek, _ménō_):** This primary verb signifies to stay, abide, continue, or dwell in a given place, state, or relation. In this context, it is a command for the disciples to settle in one household once welcomed, emphasizing stability and contentment rather than itinerancy within a single town. It implies a commitment to the host and avoiding the appearance of seeking better accommodations.
* **labourer (Greek, _ergátēs_):** Derived from the word for "work" (ἔργον), this term refers to a toiler or worker. Figuratively, as used here and elsewhere in the New Testament, it can also refer to a teacher or one engaged in spiritual work. Jesus applies a common proverb about physical labor to the spiritual work of His disciples, underscoring that their efforts in ministry are legitimate work deserving of support.
* **worthy (Greek, _áxios_):** This adjective means deserving, comparable, or suitable, as if drawing praise. It conveys the idea of having a just claim or being of equal weight or value. When Jesus states the labourer is "worthy" of his hire, He is affirming that the spiritual service rendered by the disciples is inherently valuable and justly merits material support, not as charity, but as a rightful due.
* **hire (Greek, _misthós_):** This word refers to pay for service, wages, or reward, whether good or bad. In this context, it denotes the just compensation or sustenance due to someone for their work. It reinforces the idea that the disciples' provision is not a handout but a rightful return for their dedicated and valuable spiritual labor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in the same house remain,"**: This initial command instructs the disciples, once they have found a "house of peace" ([Luke 10:5](/luke/10-5 "Luke 10:5 - House of Peace")), to settle there. It emphasizes stability, contentment, and a commitment to the hospitality offered, preventing them from appearing ungrateful or constantly seeking better accommodations.
* **"eating and drinking such things as they give:"**: This part specifies the nature of their sustenance. The disciples are to accept whatever food and drink their hosts provide without complaint or demanding more. This reinforces their dependence on God's provision through the generosity of others and promotes humility and simplicity, avoiding any hint of materialism or exploitation.
* **"for the labourer is worthy of his hire."**: This is the foundational principle justifying the disciples' acceptance of support. Jesus employs a common proverb to assert that their spiritual work—proclaiming the kingdom, healing, and casting out demons—is legitimate and valuable labor that merits material compensation or sustenance. It establishes their right to be supported by those they serve, allowing them to focus fully on their mission.
* **"Go not from house to house."**: This final, negative command reinforces the initial instruction to remain. It explicitly forbids the disciples from moving between houses within a town, whether to seek better lodging, more abundant food, or to appear to be comparing hosts. This command safeguards the integrity of their mission, prevents the appearance of greed or instability, and ensures their focus remains on the gospel rather than personal comfort.

#### Literary Devices
The most prominent literary device in [Luke 10:7](/luke/10-7 "Luke 10:7 - The Labourer is Worthy of His Hire") is **Proverbial Wisdom**. Jesus quotes or adapts a well-known saying, "the labourer is worthy of his hire," applying a principle from common life to the sacred work of ministry. This makes the instruction immediately relatable and underscores the legitimacy of the disciples' right to sustenance. The entire passage is also characterized by **Didactic Instruction**, as Jesus provides direct, clear, and authoritative commands to His disciples, outlining their conduct and expectations. Furthermore, there is an element of **Synecdoche** or **Metonymy** in the repeated use of "house" (`oikía`), which stands not merely for a physical dwelling but for the household, including the family and its hospitality. The phrase "Go not from house to house" also employs **Repetition** for emphasis, reinforcing the importance of remaining in one place.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 10:7 establishes a vital theological principle regarding the support of those engaged in ministry. It asserts that the work of proclaiming the gospel and serving God's kingdom is not merely a charitable endeavor but a legitimate and valuable form of labor that merits material support. This principle underscores the dignity of spiritual work and ensures that ministers can dedicate themselves fully to their calling without being burdened by material anxieties. It also highlights the reciprocal relationship between those who preach and those who receive, where the community's material provision enables the spiritual work to flourish. This divine mandate for supporting gospel workers is not charity but a just compensation, reflecting God's design for His kingdom's advancement.

* [Matthew 10:10](/matthew/10-10 "Matthew 10:10 - The Worker Deserves His Food")
* [1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - Support for Gospel Workers")
* [1 Timothy 5:18](/1_timothy/5-18 "1 Timothy 5:18 - Elders Worthy of Double Honor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 10:7 offers profound insights for both those who serve in ministry and the broader Christian community. For those called to spiritual service, it encourages a posture of humility, contentment, and absolute trust in God's provision. Ministers are to be free from the pursuit of personal gain or lavish lifestyles, focusing instead on the singular mission of the gospel. It affirms their right to be supported by the community they serve, allowing them to devote themselves fully to their calling without undue material worry, thereby preventing the gospel from being hindered by financial concerns. For all believers, this verse underscores the sacred responsibility to generously support those who minister the Word and serve the church. Providing for spiritual leaders is not merely an act of charity but an act of justice and a vital participation in the work of the gospel. This support enables the continuous and effective proclamation of Christ's message, fostering a symbiotic relationship where spiritual nourishment is exchanged for material sustenance, all for the advancement of God's kingdom. It also calls us to cultivate a spirit of hospitality, recognizing the divine opportunity in welcoming and providing for those who carry the good news.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the principle "the labourer is worthy of his hire" challenge modern attitudes towards ministry and financial support for spiritual leaders?**
* **In what ways can I personally practice the hospitality encouraged in this passage, both towards those in ministry and others in need?**
* **What does "remaining in the same house" imply about contentment and focus in my own life, beyond just financial matters?**
* **How can I ensure that my support for ministry is seen as an act of justice and partnership, rather than mere charity?**

### FAQ

**Does the command "Go not from house to house" apply to modern ministry or just to the specific mission of the seventy?**

Answer: While the immediate context of [Luke 10:7](/luke/10-7 "Luke 10:7 - The Labourer is Worthy of His Hire") was Jesus' specific instructions to the seventy disciples for their short-term mission, the underlying principles have enduring relevance for modern ministry. The command to "go not from house to house" primarily discouraged the appearance of greed, discontentment, or seeking preferential treatment. It fostered simplicity, contentment, and a singular focus on the mission rather than on personal comfort or material gain. For contemporary ministers, this translates into avoiding ostentation, being content with the provision offered by the community, and not being driven by a desire for luxury or constantly seeking "better" opportunities that might distract from the gospel. It encourages a stable presence and commitment to the community being served, rather than a restless pursuit of personal advantage.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 10:7, with its emphasis on the labourer being worthy of his hire, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ Himself. Jesus, the ultimate "labourer" sent by the Father, perfectly embodied the principles He commanded His disciples to follow. He lived a life of radical dependence on God's provision, often having "no place to lay his head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has No Place to Lay His Head")), yet always trusting the Father to supply His needs. His entire earthly ministry was a work of unparalleled labor, culminating in the ultimate "hire"—the salvation of humanity through His atoning sacrifice. The principle that "the labourer is worthy of his hire" foreshadows the divine economy where Christ's perfect work earns the reward of eternal life for all who believe ([John 6:27](/john/6-27 "John 6:27 - Labor for the Food That Endures")). Furthermore, as the Head of the Church, Christ continues to empower and sustain His laborers—those who proclaim His gospel—ensuring that their needs are met as they participate in His ongoing mission. The support given to ministers is, in essence, a recognition of Christ's work through them, a participation in His kingdom, and a reflection of the generosity of God Himself, who richly provides for all His children ([Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")).

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

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.

Matthew 10:10

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

Matthew 10:11

And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.

2 Timothy 2:6

The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.

Deuteronomy 12:18

But thou must eat them before the LORD thy God in the place which the LORD thy God shall choose, thou, and thy son, and thy daughter, and thy manservant, and thy maidservant, and the Levite that [is] within thy gates: and thou shalt rejoice before the LORD thy God in all that thou puttest thine hands unto.

Deuteronomy 12:19

Take heed to thyself that thou forsake not the Levite as long as thou livest upon the earth.