Understanding and Applying 1st Corinthians 9:11-14 in Modern Times
The passage from 1 Corinthians 9:11-14 addresses the issue of support for those who preach the Gospel, offering valuable insights into the balance between ministerial rights and the importance of freely preaching the Gospel.
Interpreting 1 Corinthians 9:11-14
1 Corinthians 9:11: Paul argues that those who provide spiritual nourishment should be supported materially. This reflects the principle that spiritual ministries should not go unrewarded.
1 Corinthians 9:12: Despite his right to financial support, Paul chooses not to take it among the Corinthians. He does this to uphold his commitment to preaching the Gospel freely, without gaining material benefit from his message.
1 Corinthians 9:13: Paul draws a parallel to the temple priests, supported by offerings. He shows that just as those serving in the temple receive their living from the temple, preachers of the Gospel should also be supported.
1 Corinthians 9:14: The Lord commands that preachers of the Gospel should depend on the Gospel for their living. This emphasizes the divine sanction behind the principle of financial support for ministers.
Meeting the Test Today
Living in ldquo;critical times hard to deal withrdquo; (2 Timothy 3:1-5), many face financial pressures. The desires of the flesh and the eyes can create their own pressures (1 John 2:16). The risk of becoming self-centered and insensitive to the needs of others is very real.
On the whole, Jehovah's Witnesses have excelled in meeting tests of brotherly love. For example, on March 3, 1985, an earthquake struck Santiago, Chile, and many brothers lost their homes and possessions. Quickly, congregations organized relief efforts, providing food, clothing, blankets, and other needed items (within hours, some began arriving).
But we need not wait for disaster to prove our brotherly love. If a fellow Christian suffers a financial hardship, we must be sensitive to his needs, doing more than saying ldquo;Keep warm and well fed.rdquo; (James 2:15, 16)
For those in full-time service, the desire to live by the Gospel means neither demanding nor expecting financial assistance from those they serve. Many have been moved to show generosity towards those laboring to ldquo;sow spiritual thingsrdquo; (1 Corinthians 9:11-14).
The Needs of the Global Witness
The 1989 Yearbook of Jehovah's Witnesses reports that during the 1988 service year, the Watch Tower Society spent nearly $30 million caring for special pioneers, missionaries, and traveling overseers.ounding on field service assignments, major expenses included care for and the purchase of branch facilities, equipment, machinery, and paper. Additionally, several construction and renovation projects are ongoing, both locally and at the headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.
As in the first century, all share in this responsibility. Even those less well-off contribute small amounts, proving to be the backbone of the Society's financial support. Some find it helpful to follow the precedent set at 1 Corinthians 16:2 and regularly budget personal funds to be contributed at the local Kingdom Hall. Others may choose to contribute directly to the Watch Tower Society at 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, New York, 11201, or to one of its branch offices.
Paul’s Promise of Abundant Blessings
God promises to make all His undeserved kindness abound toward us, ensuring that we always have full self-sufficiency in everything, thus enabling us to have plenty for every good work (2 Corinthians 9:8).
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