“If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.”
King James Version (KJV)
9:12 If others - Whether true or false apostles. Partake of this power - Have a right to be maintained. Do not we rather - On account of our having laboured so much more? Lest we should give any hinderance to the gospel - By giving an occasion of cavil or reproach.
1Co 9:12 If others [be] partakers of [this] power. Enjoy this privilege of earthly support. But his right was greater than that of these. Have not used this right. He had supported himself lest he should hinder the gospel. The heathen might say that he was influenced by mercenary motives. As to his course, see Ac 18:3.