1 Timothy 5:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Timothy 5:18
18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
Chapter Context
1 Timothy 5 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, prayer, redemption. Written during after Paul's first Roman imprisonment (c. 62-64 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: False teaching in Ephesus required organizational and doctrinal clarification.
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 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Timothy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Timothy 5:18
18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
Analysis
For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn (λέγει γὰρ ἡ γραφή· βοῦν ἀλοῶντα οὐ φιμώσεις, legei gar hē graphē· boun aloōnta ou phimōseis)—quoting Deuteronomy 25:4, Paul argues from analogy: if oxen working deserve to eat grain, how much more do human workers deserve support? Phimoō means to muzzle, to put to silence.
And, The labourer is worthy of his reward (Καί· ἄξιος ὁ ἐργάτης τοῦ μισθοῦ αὐτοῦ, Kai· axios ho ergatēs tou misthou autou)—quoting Jesus' words (Luke 10:7), Paul affirms workers deserve wages. Misthos means wage, pay, reward. This verse combines OT law and Jesus' teaching to establish the principle: ministers deserve financial support for their labor.
Paul uses this same OT-NT combination in 1 Corinthians 9:9-14 to defend his right to support (though he voluntarily waived it). The principle is universal: those who labor for gospel ministry deserve material support from those who benefit spiritually. The ox isn't muzzled while working; the minister shouldn't labor without support.
Historical Context
Paul often worked as a tentmaker to support himself, refusing payment to avoid accusations of greed (Acts 18:3, 1 Corinthians 9:12-18). But he insists this was his personal choice, not universal requirement. Churches should support their pastors. The combination of Moses and Jesus establishes this principle firmly: gospel workers deserve financial support for their labor.
Reflection
- How does the ox-muzzling principle apply to compensating pastors and ministry workers?
- Why does Paul combine Old Testament law and Jesus' teaching to make his argument?
- What does this verse teach about the relationship between spiritual ministry and material support?
Cross-References
- Word: Romans 9:17, 10:11, James 4:5
- Parallel theme: Leviticus 19:13, Deuteronomy 25:4, Matthew 10:10, Luke 10:7, 1 Corinthians 9:14