1 Corinthians 9:20

To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), to win those under the law.

Study Bible

To the Jews I became like a Jew
In this phrase, Paul emphasizes his adaptability and willingness to identify with the Jewish people to share the Gospel effectively. The Greek word for "became" (ἐγενόμην, egenomēn) suggests a transformation or adaptation. Historically, Paul was a Jew by birth and a Pharisee by training (Philippians 3:5), which gave him a deep understanding of Jewish customs and laws. His approach was not deceitful but strategic, aiming to bridge cultural gaps. This reflects the missionary heart of Paul, who sought to remove any barriers to the Gospel.

to win the Jews
The word "win" (κερδήσω, kerdēsō) in Greek implies gaining or acquiring something valuable. Paul's mission was to lead the Jewish people to Christ, recognizing their unique covenantal history with God. This reflects a deep love and respect for his own people, as seen in Romans 9:1-5, where Paul expresses his sorrow for Israel's unbelief. His goal was not to impose but to invite them into the fullness of their faith through Christ.

To those under the law
This phrase refers to Jews who strictly adhered to the Mosaic Law. The "law" (νόμος, nomos) here is the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, which were central to Jewish life and identity. Paul acknowledges the importance of the law in Jewish tradition, yet he understands that Christ fulfilled the law (Matthew 5:17). His approach was to respect their observance while gently guiding them to the freedom found in Christ.

I became like one under the law
Paul's willingness to live as one "under the law" demonstrates his flexibility in ministry. He was not bound by the law for his righteousness, as he knew that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone (Galatians 2:16). However, he chose to observe certain customs to avoid offending those he sought to reach. This reflects a principle of Christian liberty used for the sake of others, as seen in 1 Corinthians 8:9.

(though I myself am not under the law)
Here, Paul clarifies his position in Christ. He is free from the law's demands because of the grace of God. This parenthetical statement highlights the new covenant reality that believers are justified by faith, not by works of the law (Romans 3:28). It underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, which liberates from the law's condemnation (Romans 8:1).

to win those under the law
Paul's ultimate aim was to "win" those who were under the law, leading them to the truth of the Gospel. His strategy was to meet people where they were, respecting their traditions while pointing them to the fulfillment of those traditions in Jesus Christ. This reflects the heart of evangelism: to lovingly and respectfully guide others to the saving knowledge of Christ, using wisdom and cultural sensitivity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and epistles. He was a Jew by birth and a Roman citizen, which gave him a unique perspective and ability to connect with diverse groups.

2. The Jews
Referring to the Jewish people, who were under the Mosaic Law. Paul, being a Jew himself, understood their customs and traditions.

3. The Law
This refers to the Mosaic Law, which was central to Jewish life and religious practice. Paul often addressed the relationship between the Law and the Gospel in his letters.

4. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece where Paul established a church. The city was known for its diversity and was a hub of trade and culture, making it a strategic location for spreading the Gospel.

5. The Early Church
The community of believers in the first century who were navigating the challenges of living out their faith in a diverse and often hostile environment.

Teaching Points

Cultural Adaptability for the Gospel
Paul’s approach teaches us the importance of understanding and respecting cultural contexts to effectively share the Gospel. We should be willing to adapt our methods without compromising the message.

Balancing Law and Grace
While Paul respected the Law, he emphasized that salvation is through grace. Christians today must navigate the balance between legalism and the freedom found in Christ.

Missionary Mindset
Paul’s example encourages believers to adopt a missionary mindset, seeking to understand and reach people where they are, whether in our local communities or abroad.

Unity in Diversity
The early church was diverse, and Paul’s actions remind us of the importance of unity in the body of Christ, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Personal Sacrifice for the Sake of Others
Paul’s willingness to become “like a Jew” demonstrates the importance of personal sacrifice and humility in our efforts to share the Gospel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we apply Paul’s example of cultural adaptability in our own efforts to share the Gospel in diverse communities today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not compromising the Gospel message while adapting our methods to reach different groups?

3. How does understanding the balance between law and grace help us in our personal walk with Christ and in our interactions with others?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to promote unity within the diverse body of Christ in our local church?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a personal sacrifice for the sake of others. How did this experience help you grow in your faith and witness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 16:3
Paul circumcised Timothy to avoid offending the Jews they were ministering to, demonstrating his willingness to adapt for the sake of the Gospel.

Galatians 2:11-14
Paul confronts Peter for withdrawing from Gentile believers, highlighting the tension between Jewish customs and the freedom found in Christ.

Philippians 3:5-6
Paul describes his Jewish heritage and adherence to the Law, providing context for his ability to relate to the Jews.