Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Corinthians 9:14

"Even so did the Lord ordain that they that proclaim the gospel should live of the gospel." — 1 Corinthians 9:14 (ASV)

To emphasize further the reason and importance for his self-restraint in exercising this right of being supported, Paul turns to a religious illustration that was applicable both in OT biblical worship and in pagan temples. The question in v.13 expects a yes answer. His illustration has a particularly telling relation to the Corinthians with their former connections with pagan worship. Paul’s language is pointed: When people serve in a temple or are offering sacrifices at the altar, they eat of the temple offerings as part of their payment for their work.

Paul then applies what he has just said. The principle of giving material support to those who serve in the temple must be applied also to ministers of the Gospel. The Lord Jesus himself commanded that those who preach the Gospel should be supported by those who believe the Gospel .