This is the second half of a pair. Paul's first question asked whether the law was only about oxen; this one expects the answer yes, it was written with people in view. Barnes says "altogether" here may be rendered "chiefly, mainly, principally, or doubtless," not that oxen were left out. Matthew Henry explains: "But this law was not chiefly given out of God's regard to oxen, or concern for them, but to teach mankind that all due encouragement should be given to those who are employed by us, or labouring for our good." Paul wants the Corinthians to see that his right to support rests on God's own law, not only on his opinion (1 Corinthians 9:8).

Paul answers in the same breath: "For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope" (1 Corinthians 9:10). He applies it: "If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?" (1 Corinthians 9:11). Yet he adds, "Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ" (1 Corinthians 9:12).

A plowman works before there is any harvest to see, so he works "in hope." Barnes explains that this means "in hope of reaping a harvest, or of obtaining success in his labors," and that the thresher should share the result: "It is fair and right that he should enjoy the fruits of his toil."

Gill says the law was given "not merely for the sake of the ox, but chiefly for the sake of men," and especially "for the sake of ministers of the Gospel, who for their spiritual strength, and labours in their work, may be compared to oxen." The ESV renders the end of the verse "in hope of sharing in the crop."

Paul's question shows how Scripture can speak beyond its first setting. A law about an ox at harvest still teaches God's people because, as Barnes puts it, the law settled "a principle of humanity and equity." Paul uses the same law again for elders who labor in the word: "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward" (1 Timothy 5:18).

Yet the chapter's surprise is that Paul did not use the right he defends: "Nevertheless we have not used this power" (1 Corinthians 9:12; see 1 Corinthians 9:15). He argued for the principle so the Corinthians would understand it, then laid it down so nothing would "hinder the gospel of Christ." A real right can still be laid down for the sake of the gospel.