1 Corinthians 9:1-15 - Homilies By E. Hurndall

The support of the ministry.

Paul recognizes a ministry set apart.

I. THE RIGHT OF MINISTERS TO CLAIM ADEQUATE SUPPORT FROM THEIR PEOPLE . Enforced by:

1. Analogy .

2. The Mosaic Law.

3. Common sense. It is reasonable that those who give up their time, energies, and gifts to the service of the Church should be supported by it. This is seen more strikingly when we remember that what is received by the Church is of infinitely more value than what is given: "If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?" The Church is not a loser, but a great gainer. What blessings God has bestowed in the past through the channel of a faithful ministry? What may he not in the future, to ourselves, our friends, our children?

4. The express ordination of Christ. As though the preceding strong arguments were not strong enough, this the strongest and altogether unanswerable one is added. The Head of the Church commands. He sees what is fitting and best. We run counter to his mind if we do not yield prompt and willing obedience. Whatever we may think, this is what he thinks ( Matthew 10:10 ; Luke 10:8 ). Ministerial support:

II. THE RIGHT MAY PROFITABLY BE WAIVED UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES .

1. To remove prejudice.

2. To prove disinterestedness, showing that we are not actuated by love of lucre.

3. To gain more independence, which may be desirable under certain conditions of Church life.

4. To make a strong position for one's self when unjust charges are apprehended. The Apostle Paul would not give the least advantage to his enemies.

5. For any ether reasons which promise profit to the interests of Christ's kingdom. If thereby we can "gain the more" (verse 19). There is nothing derogatory in a minister supporting himself. It is a pity that there should be so much absurd prejudice against it. A marvel of incongruity that the title of "Rev." should be bestowed upon the minister who is supported by his people, and denied to the minister who follows the lead of the apostolic tent maker! that the one should be welcomed to certain associations and circles, and the other kept at arm's length! Not that the title of "Rev." is appropriate for any; yet if ever a man deserved such a designation, I suppose it was the very apostle, who, according to modern notions, disqualified himself for it. As to privileged societies, men of good sense need scarcely worry themselves about being excluded from those which would have blackballed the apostle of the Gentiles.—H.