Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working for a living?
Having asserted his apostolical authority, he proceeds to claim the rights belonging to his office, especially that of being maintained by it. I. These he states, Co1 9:3-6. "My answer to those that do examine me (that is, enquire into my authority, or the reasons of my conduct, if I am an apostle) is this: Have we not power to eat and drink (Co1 9:4), or a right to maintenance?
Commenting on 1 Corinthians 9:3-14
Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges?.... Some people have done so, as did the Habessines (e), and the ancient Romans (f); though before the apostle wrote this, the senate had made an act, that the soldiers should have a stipend from the public; and this being now so common, and universally obtaining everywhere, the apostle puts the question he does; and...
Verse 6. Or I only and Barnabas. Paul and Barnabas had wrought together as tent-makers at Corinth, . From this fact it had been inferred that they knew that they had no claim to a support. Power to forbear working? To abstain from labour, and to receive support as others do. The question implies a strong affirmation that they had such power.