1 Corinthians 9:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 9:5 mean?

In 1 Corinthians 9:5, Paul asks whether he and Barnabas have the same right as other traveling Christian workers to take a believing wife along with them. His question expects the answer yes. He points to others, including Cephas, who were already doing so.

The phrase “lead about” pictures a wife accompanying her husband on his travels. Paul names “the brethren of the Lord” alongside other apostles and Cephas, also known as Peter. These examples support his case as he answers people who question his position in verse 3.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 9:5

• “power” — ἐξουσία (exousia): This word can mean a right or authority. Here it carries the sense of having a recognized right, not simply the physical ability to do something.
• “sister” — ἀδελφή (adelphē): The word means sister. Alongside “wife,” it describes a woman who shares the Christian faith, not necessarily a sister by birth.
• “about” — περιάγω (periagō): This word carries the sense of taking someone around. It helps show that the wife accompanies the traveler rather than remaining at home.

Why 1 Corinthians 9:5 matters

• Paul treats marriage as compatible with the work of an apostle, a person sent out to spread the Christian message. His examples include “other apostles” and Cephas.
• The question concerns more than travel arrangements. In verses 6–14, Paul discusses the right of workers to receive support, so a wife’s travel would also raise the question of her support.
• Claiming a right does not mean Paul always used it. In verse 12, he says he and Barnabas did not use their right to support from the Corinthians.