What is the meaning of 1 Timothy 5:18? For the Scripture says - Paul appeals to the written Word as the ultimate authority. - By introducing two quotations with “the Scripture says,” he places them on equal footing as binding, divine revelation (2 Timothy 3:16; Matthew 4:4). - This sets the tone: whatever follows is not mere opinion but God’s clear instruction for life in the church. Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain (1 Timothy 5:18a) - Originally commanded in Deuteronomy 25:4, the verse protected working animals from being deprived of the grain they were helping to thresh. - Paul draws a straightforward line from animal labor to human labor—if God cares for an ox’s right to eat, He certainly cares for His servants’ right to be supported (1 Corinthians 9:9-11). - Practical application for the church: • Elders who “labor in preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17) should be provided for, not hindered. • Withholding fair support stifles ministry just as muzzling an ox would hinder threshing. The worker is worthy of his wages (1 Timothy 5:18b) - Quoted from Jesus’ instruction to the seventy-two in Luke 10:7 and echoed in Matthew 10:10. - The Lord Himself set the precedent that those who labor in spiritual work deserve material compensation. - Reinforced elsewhere: Leviticus 19:13; Deuteronomy 24:14-15; James 5:4 all condemn holding back wages. - In the church context this means: • Financial support is not a bonus but a rightful wage. • Respecting this principle honors Christ’s own words and sustains faithful ministry. summary 1 Timothy 5:18 binds together an Old Testament command and Jesus’ teaching to show that God insists on fair, timely support for those who serve. Just as an ox must be allowed to eat while working, so ministers must receive appropriate provision, for “the worker is worthy of his wages.” Honoring this principle demonstrates obedience to Scripture, reflects God’s justice, and enables the ongoing proclamation of the gospel. |
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