∞ Paul unpacks the sensus plenior from De 25:4.
1Co 9:9 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
For it is written in the law of Moses
This is our authority. The law did not pass away, but Paul is showing that the intent of the law is hidden in the law.
Inference
Paul uses inference to elucidate the scripture.
Does God take care for oxen?
The question is not rhetorical. The answer is not obvious.
- God takes care of the sparrows, so he must take care of oxen.
- But oxen are domesticated, given to the care of men.
- He has provided for them by means of giving them a caretaker.
- But men can be cruel; beating, starving, overworking, those in their care.
- Yes. So he teaches men to be kind, gentle and fair to their beasts of burden.
God gave beasts to men, not to minimize their labor, but to teach them of himself: Elohim-Israel.
Written for our sakes
Of course. Since we are separated from God by ignorance; Elohim, he makes himself known through revelation; Israel.
Shift from Ox to man
Plow -uncover the hidden
Threshing - obtaining the fruit from the hiding place. Tribulation on the part of the one being threshed.
1Co 9:10 Or saith he [it] altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, [this] is written: that he that ploweth חרש should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth דיש in hope should be partaker of his hope.
Heb 11:6 But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.