1 Corinthians 9:13

A fifth argument is here produced for the ministers' maintenance, which is taken from the example of the Levites, who lived upon the things that were offered in the temple, and at the altar, and had. considerable part of the sacrifice allowed them by God himself for their ministration, under the law.

In like manner, says the apostle, "It is the Lord's pleasure and appointment now under the gospel, Matthew 10:10; Luke 10:7 that they who preach the word should be maintained for it, and not diverted from their work by the cares and business of the world, but have. livelihood from their labour.

Hence it clearly appears, that. maintenance for the ministry under the gospel; for so, says the apostle, God has ordained. God's will in this matter is the same under the New Testament as it was under the old; and and as. maintenance in general is of divine right, so tithes may make thus far. claim to be of that nature, that it is believed the wisdom of man cannot find out any better expedient, than by them to support. ministerial maintenance for the preachers of the gospel to the end of the world.