1 Corinthians 9:7 - Exposition

Who goeth a warfare, etc.? In this and the following verses he adduces six successive arguments to prove the right of a minister to be supported by his congregation.

1. From the ordinary laws of human justice ( 1 Corinthians 9:7 ).

2. By analogy, from the Law of Moses ( 1 Corinthians 9:8-10 ).

3. A fortiori, from the obligations of common gratitude ( 1 Corinthians 9:11 ).

4. From their concession of the right to others who had inferior claims ( 1 Corinthians 9:12 ).

5. From the Jewish provision for the maintenance of priests ( 1 Corinthians 9:13 ).

6. By the rule laid down by Christ himself (vers 14). Goeth a warfare. Analogy from the payment of soldiers ( 2 Corinthians 10:4 ). At his own charges. The word used for "cost" means literally rations ( Luke 3:14 ; Romans 6:23 ). Planteth a vineyard. Analogy from the support of the vine dressers ( Matthew 9:37 ). Feedeth a flock. Analogy from the support of shepherds ( 1 Peter 5:2 ). The two latter classes of labourers are paid in kind in the East to this day.