1 Timothy 5:18

18 because the Scripture says: "When an ox is working in the grain, do not cover its mouth to keep it from eating," and "A worker should be given his pay."

1 Timothy 5:18 Meaning and Commentary

Ver. 18 For the Scripture saith
In ( Deuteronomy 25:4 )

thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn;
(See Gill on 1 Corinthians 9:9). (See Gill on 1 Corinthians 9:10). The ox, for its strength and labour, is a fit emblem of a Gospel minister; and its treading the corn out of the husk and ear aptly represents the beating out, as it were, of Gospel truths, by the ministers of it, their making the doctrines of the Gospel clear, plain, and evident to the understandings of men; wherefore, as the ox was not muzzled when it trod out the corn, but might freely and largely feed upon it, so such who labour in the preaching of the Gospel ought to have a sufficient and competent maintenance: for which purpose this citation is made, as also the following:

and the labourer is worthy of his reward;
which seems to be taken from ( Luke 10:7 ) which Gospel was now written, and in the hands of the apostle; who here, by two testimonies, the one from Moses, and the other from Christ, supports the right of the honourable maintenance of the ministers of the Gospel.

1 Timothy 5:18 In-Context

16 If any woman who is a believer has widows in her family, she should care for them herself. The church should not have to care for them. Then it will be able to take care of those who are truly widows.

17 The elders who lead the church well should receive double honor, especially those who work hard by speaking and teaching,

18 because the Scripture says: "When an ox is working in the grain, do not cover its mouth to keep it from eating," and "A worker should be given his pay."

19 Do not listen to someone who accuses an elder, without two or three witnesses.

20 Tell those who continue sinning that they are wrong. Do this in front of the whole church so that the others will have a warning.