Luke 10:7

And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.

Luke 10:7 (KJV)

Context

In Luke 10, Jesus sends out seventy disciples ahead of Him to every city and place where He Himself was about to go. He gives them specific instructions for their journey, including how to conduct themselves when they enter a town. This verse is part of that commissioning, guiding the disciples in their interactions with those who receive them.

Meaning

Jesus instructs the disciples to remain in the same house where they are welcomed, eating and drinking what the hosts provide. This highlights the importance of hospitality and contentment. The disciples were to accept and appreciate the provisions offered, rather than seeking better accommodations or indulging personal preferences. The command “Go not from house to house” was practical: moving from house to house would burden the hosts and distract from the mission. It also taught stability and trust in God’s provision through the local community.

Jesus emphasizes that the laborer is worthy of his hire. This implies that those who labor in the service of the Lord should be supported and provided for by those they serve. The principle is that those who work for the kingdom of God should be supported materially and not left without basic necessities. This teaching is consistent with the idea that ministers and workers in the church should be compensated for their efforts.

Biblical connections

The instruction to eat and drink what is set before them is reiterated in Luke 10:8, where Jesus tells the disciples to accept whatever is offered. This reinforces the principle of contentment and dependence on God’s provision through the hospitality of others. The phrase “the laborer is worthy of his hire” establishes a biblical principle that supports the right of gospel workers to receive material support, though it is not a mandate for wealth or luxury.

Application

This verse reminds us of the importance of hospitality and contentment. We should be willing to receive others and provide for their needs when they are laboring for the Lord. It also teaches us to trust in God’s provision rather than constantly striving for better circumstances. As believers, we are called to support and care for those who dedicate their lives to ministry, recognizing their worthiness of compensation for their work. The disciples were to be a blessing to the household, not a burden, and their stay was to be characterized by gratitude and contentment.

Reflection

Luke 10:7 teaches us about the principles of hospitality, contentment, and reliance on God’s provision. It highlights the importance of supporting those who labor for the Lord and reminds us of the significance of trust and dependence on God in our lives. When we serve, we can trust that God will provide through the goodwill of those who receive us, and when we receive, we can honor His workers by meeting their needs with generosity and grace.