The verb translated “share in” conveys the idea of receiving one’s portion from a common source. It is not mere observation but active participation in the benefits of an offering. The word image is drawn from communal meals in which each person receives an allotted part; in temple service that portion comes from what has been devoted to God.

Biblical Occurrence and Usage

Only once does the New Testament employ this term, in 1 Corinthians 9:13. Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that “those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar” (Berean Standard Bible). The apostle cites a well-known practice: priests who ministered at the altar were entitled to a portion of its sacrifices. By referencing an undisputed precedent, Paul establishes a principle for the material support of New Covenant ministers.

Old Testament Foundations

Priestly participation in sacrificial offerings is legislated throughout the Pentateuch:

• Leviticus 6:16-18; 7:31-34 – specific portions of grain and peace offerings belong to the priests.
• Numbers 18:8-14 – “All the holy offerings the sons of Israel give to the LORD I give to you and your sons”.
• Deuteronomy 18:1-5 – the Levites “shall have no inheritance among their brothers; the LORD is their inheritance.”

These passages show that the right of participation is grounded in divine ordinance, not human generosity. By linking his argument to these texts, Paul aligns church practice with enduring scriptural patterns.

Cultural and Historical Context

In first-century Judaism the temple system still functioned, and priests regularly derived sustenance from sacrifices. Even Diaspora Jews knew this arrangement from synagogue readings. Paul evokes a contemporary, visible illustration to validate support for itinerant gospel workers—an argument that would resonate with Jewish and Gentile believers acquainted with Jewish ceremonial life.

Paul’s Argument in 1 Corinthians 9

1. Temple workers share the offerings (verse 13).
2. By analogy, “the Lord has ordained that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (verse 14).
3. Paul voluntarily forfeits that right for strategic reasons (verses 15-18) while affirming it for others.

Thus the term does double duty: it grounds a right and highlights Paul’s sacrificial restraint, modeling gospel-driven flexibility without undermining biblical precedent.

Theological Significance

Participation in offerings reflects more than economic provision; it portrays fellowship with God. Consuming holy food signifies identification with the altar (compare Hebrews 13:10). In Christ, believers become “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), sharing in the grace secured by His once-for-all sacrifice. Ministers who labor in the gospel visibly embody this truth when they partake of resources set apart for sacred service.

Ministry Application

• Congregational support of pastors, missionaries, and teachers is not a concession but an act of obedience to the pattern of Scripture.
• Those who receive support must handle it as holy, recognizing its origin in offerings devoted to God.
• Voluntary self-denial, as modeled by Paul, may at times advance the gospel, yet it never negates the church’s ongoing responsibility to provide.

Related New Testament Themes

Sharing in spiritual benefits (Romans 15:27), fellowship in giving (Philippians 4:15), and partnership in suffering (2 Timothy 1:8) all build on the larger concept of koinonia. The singular verb of 1 Corinthians 9:13 lies on the same continuum: believers are called to participate—whether in resources, joys, or trials—for the sake of the gospel.

Practical Reflection

When congregations set aside offerings, they mirror Israel’s altar: a sacred space where earthly goods are transferred into heavenly service. By ensuring that those who minister are “shared with” from these gifts, the church proclaims that God Himself sustains His servants and invites His people into the blessed fellowship of giving.