1 Corinthians 9:6 – “Or is it only I and Barnabas who lack the right to not work for a living?”

Extended Explanation

Paul is continuing his defense of his apostleship and the rights that come with it. He and Barnabas had chosen not to rely on financial support from the churches they served, instead working to provide for themselves. However, he points out that other apostles received support without question.

• “Or is it only I and Barnabas” – Paul highlights that he and Barnabas were being treated differently than the other apostles. They were expected to support themselves, while others were financially supported by the church.
• “Who lack the right” – The word “right” (exousia in Greek) refers to an authority or privilege that is legitimate and given by God. Paul and Barnabas had the same right as other apostles to receive financial support.
• “To not work for a living” – This phrase means to make a living through ministry rather than through manual labor. Paul and Barnabas worked to provide for themselves (Acts 18:3), even though they had the right to receive support from the church.

Paul is not complaining but making a point: if other apostles were supported, why was he and Barnabas being treated differently? His goal was to show the Corinthians that he had willingly given up his right to support for the sake of the gospel.

Historical Context

In Paul’s time, teachers, philosophers, and religious leaders were usually supported by their followers. In Jewish tradition, rabbis often had occupations, but it was also normal for them to be provided for by those they taught.

Paul and Barnabas, however, chose a different path. They worked with their hands—Paul was a tentmaker (Acts 18:3)—to avoid being a financial burden on the churches. This was especially important in Corinth, a city known for corruption and greed. Some religious teachers took advantage of their followers for money, and Paul wanted to make sure no one accused him of doing the same.

Despite this, some in Corinth questioned his apostleship because he wasn’t receiving financial support. They assumed that a true apostle wouldn’t need to work a trade. Paul is pushing back against this unfair judgment by pointing out that he had the right to support, just like the other apostles, but chose not to use it.

Theological Implications

1. Ministry Leaders Have the Right to Financial Support – Paul affirms that those who serve the church have the right to be provided for, even if he personally didn’t use that right.
2. Sacrificial Living for the Sake of the Gospel – Paul and Barnabas willingly gave up financial support to avoid any barriers to their ministry. This shows that sometimes believers are called to sacrifice for the good of others.
3. True Service is Not About Money – Paul’s main concern was spreading the gospel, not financial gain. His example reminds us that serving God is not about personal benefit but about faithfulness to His calling.

Literary Analysis

Paul uses a rhetorical question to make his point. By asking, “Is it only I and Barnabas?” he is highlighting the inconsistency in how the Corinthians viewed apostleship. If financial support determined legitimacy, then why were only Paul and Barnabas expected to work while the others were supported?

The phrase “right to not work for a living” is key. Paul is not saying that ministers should be lazy—he is saying that those who dedicate their lives to preaching the gospel should not have to work another job to survive. The church should support them.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Timothy 5:17-18 – Paul later teaches that elders who preach and teach are worthy of financial support.
• Luke 10:7 – Jesus tells His disciples that “the worker deserves his wages,” affirming that those who serve in ministry should be provided for.
• Acts 18:3 – Paul worked as a tentmaker to support himself while in Corinth.
• 2 Thessalonians 3:7-9 – Paul explains that he worked to set an example of diligence, even though he had the right to be supported.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Ministry is a Calling, Not a Business – Paul and Barnabas were willing to work rather than demand financial support, showing that true ministry is about serving, not personal gain.
2. The Church Should Support Its Leaders – While some are called to work outside jobs, those who devote themselves fully to preaching and teaching should be cared for by the church.
3. Sometimes Sacrifice is Necessary for the Gospel – Just as Paul gave up his right to support in order to reach more people, there are times when believers must make sacrifices for the sake of the kingdom.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in how He provides for those who serve Him. He designed the church to care for its leaders so they can focus on their calling. At the same time, His love is seen in how He calls some to sacrificial living, knowing that their reward is in Him.

God’s love is also shown through Paul’s example. Paul’s willingness to give up his rights reflects the heart of God, who does not force His will upon us but lovingly leads and provides for His people.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus Also Relied on the Support of Others – During His ministry, Jesus and His disciples were supported by faithful followers (Luke 8:1-3).
2. Jesus Gave Up His Rights for the Sake of Others – Just as Paul set aside his right to financial support, Jesus set aside His divine rights to become a servant and die for our sins (Philippians 2:5-8).
3. Jesus Taught That Workers in the Kingdom Deserve Support – In Matthew 10:10, Jesus tells His disciples not to take extra provisions because “the worker is worth his keep.”

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Paul and Barnabas chose to support themselves rather than accept financial help?
2. How should churches today balance the need to support their leaders while also encouraging sacrificial service?
3. Are there areas in your life where God may be calling you to give up personal rights for the sake of the gospel?
4. How does this verse challenge the way we think about money and ministry?
5. What can we learn from Paul’s example about humility and selflessness in serving Christ?

This verse reminds us that serving God is not about financial gain but about faithfulness. Paul had the right to be supported, but he chose to work so that nothing would hinder the gospel. His example challenges us to consider how we can live sacrificially for the sake of Christ.