King James Version
What Does 1 Corinthians 9:12 Mean?
“If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.”
Context
10
Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
11
If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?
12
If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
13
Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? live: or, feed
14
Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **If others** **be partakers. . . .**—You do recognise this principle in regard to other teachers, and they actually partake of this right to be supported by you; we, your first teachers, have a stronger right. St. Paul had been literally their “planter” (1Corinthians 3:6).
**But suffer all things**—*i.e.,* We endure all kinds of hard work and privation rather than use a power which I have demonstrated we possess, and which others actually avail themselves of, lest our doing so might, in a way, hinder the progress of Christ’s gospel by giving enemies any even apparent reason for attributing our zeal to unworthy motives.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Corinthians 9:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Corinthians 9:12
1 Corinthians 9:18
→2 Corinthians 11:12
→1 Corinthians 9:15
→2 Corinthians 11:7-10
→1 Thessalonians 2:6-9
→1 Corinthians 9:2
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge