ACC ~ 1 Corinthians 9 v15a

THE CLARITY OF THE TEXT EXCEEDS ITS EXPLANATIONS. AUGUSTINE: “The Lord directed that those who preach the gospel should have their living from the gospel. But I for my part have appealed to none of these rights.” … What is clearer than this? What is more definite? My only fear is that, when I discuss the passage in an attempt to explain it, I may obscure that which is of itself patent and forceful. For, they who do not understand these words, or pretend that they do not understand them, understand mine much less. THE WORK OF MONKS 9.

LOOK TO THE SAINTS FOR APPLICATIONS. AUGUSTINE: “For the laborer deserves his hire.” He showed that this practicewas permitted, though not commanded, lest perhaps a disciple who took some compensation for his personal needs from those to whom he was preaching might think he was doing wrong. That it was more commendable to omit this practice is shown clearly in the life of the apostle … [who] declared: “Nevertheless I have not used this right.” … He possessed the right, but he did not bind his followers by a command. Since we are, then, unable to comprehend many passages, we gather from the deeds of the saints how to understand those passages which may easily be misinterpreted if reference is not made to the example set by the saints. ON LYING 15.30.

1 Cor