1 Corinthians 9:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 9:5
5 Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 9 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, wisdom, creation. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 9:5
5 Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
Analysis
Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? Paul asserts a second apostolic right: to be accompanied by a believing wife at the church's expense. The phrase "lead about" (Greek periagō, περιάγω) means to bring along on missionary journeys. Other apostles, Jesus' biological brothers (James, Jude, etc.), and Peter (Cephas) all traveled with their wives, who were supported by the churches they served.
This detail reveals early church practice: apostolic ministry was not isolated asceticism but often a family affair, with wives serving alongside husbands. The mention of Cephas (Peter's Aramaic name) is strategic—Paul references the most prominent apostle to underscore that his own authority is equal. If Peter has the right to material support and a traveling companion, so does Paul. Yet once again, Paul will refuse this privilege (he remained single, 1 Cor 7:7-8), subordinating personal comfort to gospel effectiveness.
Historical Context
First-century Jewish and Christian missionaries often traveled in pairs or groups for safety, accountability, and mutual support. Women served as patrons, hosts, and ministers in the early church (Rom 16:1-2; Phil 4:2-3). The fact that apostles' wives accompanied them suggests they actively participated in ministry, not merely as dependents but as co-laborers. This also implies the churches provided housing, food, and travel expenses for missionary families.
Reflection
- How does Paul's reference to Peter, Jesus' brothers, and other apostles establish his equal standing?
- What does this verse reveal about women's active roles in early apostolic ministry?
- Why might Paul have chosen celibacy (1 Cor 7:7) despite having the right to marry?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Corinthians 7:39, Galatians 1:19
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 7:7, Matthew 8:14, Mark 1:30, 6:3, John 1:42, Acts 1:14