9:11 {7} If we have sown unto you spiritual things, [is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?
(7) An assumption of the arguments with an amplification, for neither in so doing do we require a reward appropriate for our work.
9:11 If we have sown to you spiritual things. Preached the gospel, converted them, built them up in Christ. This conserved their eternal interests.
Carnal things. An earthly support.
9:11 Is it a great matter if we shall reap as much of your carnal things - As is needful for our sustenance? Do you give us things of greater value than those you receive from us?
9:1-14 It is not new for a minister to meet with unkind returns for good-will to a people, and diligent and successful services among them. To the cavils of some, the apostle answers, so as to set forth himself as an example of self-denial, for the good of others. He had a right to marry as well as other apostles, and to claim what was needful for his wife, and his children if he had any, from the churches, without labouring with his own hands to get it. Those who seek to do our souls good, should have food provided for them. But he renounced his right, rather than hinder his success by claiming it. It is the people's duty to maintain their minister. He may wave his right, as Paul did; but those transgress a precept of Christ, who deny or withhold due support.
