1 Corinthians 9:6, Power to Forbear Working

1 Corinthians 9:6 Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?

When Paul and Barnabas ministered in Corinth with the establishment of the church, they did not want support from those in Corinth although they had every right to do so. There were many Corinthians who were materially affluent. They did not want any misunderstanding and be accused of coming to Corinth to enrich themselves.  Instead, they worked with their hands as tent-makers. [Zodhiates]

The churches in Macedonia, however, was the main source of support for the Apostle Paul. The churches in Macedonia gave generously although they were poor, they were sacrificial. This enabled him to devote time to the gospel work without having to take care of his physical needs.

2 Corinthians 8:1-5 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.

Zodhiates said well of the lessons to be gleaned:

(1) Paul does not hesitate to isolate himself as an exception to the general rule of compensation for labour performed.

(2) He laboured with his own hands by being a tentmaker, along with Priscilla and Aquilla, his companions in Corinth.

(3) He did not allow his trade to overwhelm him in the use of his time, but he balanced it all so that he could make a living and, at the same time, preach the gospel.

(4) He also recalled the example of Barnabas, who probably was well-to-do and neither to labour, nor accepted compensation for his spiritual work.

(5) He would not allow the Corinthians to consider his apostolic work as being unworthy of compensation because he chose not to receive it.

(6) He defends the choice he made to do manual work and, at the same time, preach the gospel. This was his inalienable right which no one had the authority to condemn.

Amen.