1 Corinthians 9:11, Spiritual Things

1 Corinthians 9:11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?

What are the spiritual things? Matthew Poole defined well, “The apostle meaneth the doctrine and sacraments of the gospel; which are called spiritual things, because they come from heaven, they affect the soul and spirit of a man, they tend to make men spiritual, they prepare the soul for heaven.”

What then are the carnal things? Poole again defined, “By carnal things he means things which only serve our bodies, which are our carnal, fleshly part.”

The spiritual ministry work ought to be considered worthy of compensation and ought to include the provision of physical sustenance. It is good that we express our appreciation of spiritual benefits with material blessings. [Zodhiates] Amen.