Does a soldier pay his own wages when serving in the military?
No, a soldier does not pay his own wages when serving in the military. The government provides a living wage and pays the troops a stipend so they can buy their necessities. The soldier serves, but the government covers his expenses and compensation.
Les teaches that Paul uses the analogy of military service to show that a servant of God is worthy of his labor. When a nation calls a man into the armed forces, it does not expect him to pay his own wages; the government gives him a living wage. Rome likewise paid its troops a stipend so they could buy necessities. Paul applies this to pastors, teachers, and evangelists, arguing they should be supported for their work.