The Right of Gospel Workers to Material Support

Paul defends his apostolic rights by asking ordinary questions: soldiers are supported, farmers eat from their crops, and shepherds share in the flock’s produce. He then quotes Deuteronomy 25:4—“Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn”—and explicitly applies the law’s humane principle to those who labor in gospel ministry.

Paul also compares Christian ministry with temple service, where priests received a share from offerings, and concludes that “the Lord” ordained that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. The saying likely reflects Jesus’ mission teaching that a worker deserves support.