What examples in 1 Corinthians 9:7 highlight the importance of supporting church leaders? Living Pictures of Provision in 1 Corinthians 9:7 Example 1: The Soldier on Active Duty - “‘Who serves as a soldier at his own expense?’ (1 Corinthians 9:7)” - A soldier’s nation underwrites his living costs; likewise, Christ’s army supports its gospel soldiers (cf. 2 Timothy 2:3-4). - Churches free their leaders to focus on the spiritual battle when they shoulder daily expenses. Example 2: The Vineyard Planter - “‘Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit?’ (1 Corinthians 9:7)” - Deuteronomy 20:6 assumes the planter enjoys his produce. - Those who sow spiritual seed rightly share in the material “fruit” of the congregation (Galatians 6:6). - Provision is not charity; it is the natural yield of the field they have cultivated. Example 3: The Shepherd with the Flock - “‘Who tends a flock and does not drink of its milk?’ (1 Corinthians 9:7)” - Shepherding demands vigilant care; milk sustains the shepherd (John 10:11-13; 1 Peter 5:2-3). - A healthy flock gladly provides nourishment to its caretaker, and both thrive. A Consistent Scriptural Principle - “The worker is worthy of his wages” (Luke 10:7). - “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain” (Deuteronomy 25:4, quoted in 1 Timothy 5:18). - “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:14). - Old-covenant tithes supported priests; the new-covenant church follows the same heartbeat—generous provision for those set apart to minister. Practical Ways to Live This Out - Plan regular, proportional giving dedicated to pastors, missionaries, and staff. - Offer non-monetary help—meals, childcare, professional skills—to lighten everyday burdens. - Speak words of appreciation; encourage leaders as fellow soldiers, farmers, and shepherds. - Volunteer in administrative and service roles to protect their time for prayer and the Word. - View support as investment in an eternal harvest, “credited to your account” (Philippians 4:17). |
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