1 Timothy 5:18

Scripture saith. Compare Paul’s argument in 1 Cor. 9:7–14 for a just remuneration for the ministry. Paul appeals to God’s Word as the final authority: those who devote full time to the ministry should be paid an honorable wage. Some commentators think Paul does not here refer to financial support, but to honor befitting position and creditable service. As an ox receives grain for its service, so an elder should receive respect and honor worthy of his ministry.

Reward. Gr. misthos, “wages,” “hire.” Paul’s insertion of the idea of payment for work performed suggests strongly that “honour” (v. 17) contains the thought of actual financial support (see Luke 10:7). The apostle here refers to the principle embodied in the Lord’s plan for the support of the Levitical priesthood (Num. 18:21), that those who dedicate themselves to holy service deserve material support from those whose spiritual interests they serve. This quotation places the words of Jesus on the same plane as OT Scripture. This seems to be the first instance where His words are quoted as “scripture.”