Definition: If we have sown unto you spiritual things, [is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 9:11. It's a really important and often misunderstood point about our focus and priorities. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is asking a crucial question: “Are we putting too much effort into things that are not spiritual, and are we sacrificing our time and energy for things that aren't truly important to God?” It essentially challenges us to be careful about what we prioritize. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "If we have sown unto you spiritual things..." – This means we’ve been working on things like prayer, worship, and helping others in a way that's focused on God and His purpose. Think of planting seeds – we're nurturing these things to grow into something good. "[is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?" – This is the core of the question. “Carnal” means earthly, physical, or worldly. "Reaping" means to take and profit from something. So, it’s asking: “Are we focusing on things that are not spiritual, and are we taking advantage of them for our own gain?” What does this mean practically? It suggests a potential problem if we become overly involved in activities that aren't truly about God. It could lead to: Distraction: Spending time on things that don’t align with our spiritual goals can pull us away from what matters most – worshipping and serving God. Lack of Focus: If we're constantly chasing worldly rewards, we might not be dedicating ourselves fully to the things that truly bring fulfillment and purpose. Sacrifice: It highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth over material gain or personal ambition. In short, the verse is a gentle warning against pursuing anything that isn’t rooted in God’s love and purpose. Important Note: Paul isn't saying we shouldn't be involved in any activity at all. He’s advising us to be mindful of how our time and energy are being spent, and to ensure that our efforts are directed towards things that are truly beneficial for our spiritual growth and relationship with God. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a few examples of things that might be considered "carnal" (worldly)? Discuss the context of this verse within 1 Corinthians 9:1-14?