◄ 1 Corinthians 9 ►
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The Rights of an Apostle (Deuteronomy 18:1–8) 1Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you yourselves not my workmanship in the Lord? 2Even if I am not an apostle to others, surely I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. 3This is my defense to those who scrutinize me: 4Have we no right to food and to drink? 5Have we no right to take along a believing wife,a as do the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas?b 6Or are Barnabas and I the only apostles who must work for a living?c 7Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Who tends a flock and does not drink of its milk? 8Do I say this from a human perspective? Doesn’t the Law say the same thing? 9For it is written in the Law of Moses: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.”d Is it about oxen that God is concerned? 10Isn’t He actually speaking on our behalf? Indeed, this was written for us, because when the plowman plows and the thresher threshes, they should also expect to share in the harvest. 11If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much for us to reap a material harvest from you? 12If others have this right to your support, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not exercise this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ. 13Do you not know that those who work in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of its offerings? 14In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. 15But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast. 16Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! 17If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility. 18What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use up my rights in preaching it. Paul the Servant to All 19Though I am free of obligation to anyone, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20To 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. 21To those without the law I became like one without the law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the law. 22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings. Run Your Race to Win 24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. 25Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. 26Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. 27No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified. Footnotes: 5 a Literally take along a sister—a wife— 5 b That is, Peter 6 c Literally Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have authority not to work? 9 d Deuteronomy 25:4 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Corinthians 9 Summary The Rights of an Apostle Verses 1–2 – Paul’s Apostolic Credentials Paul reminds the Corinthians that he has seen the risen Jesus and that they themselves are the proof of his apostleship. Their very existence as a church authenticates his calling. Verses 3–6 – The Right to Material Support When critics question his authority, Paul replies that he and Barnabas have every right to receive food, housing, and even to marry, just as the other apostles do. Verses 7–11 – Everyday Examples and Scriptural Basis He cites soldiers, farmers, and shepherds—none work at their own expense. The Law agrees: “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain” (v. 9). If spiritual seed has been sown, material harvest is a fair exchange. Verses 12–14 – Rights Confirmed but Waived Others claim this support; Paul could too. Yet he and his team refuse in order to remove every barrier to the gospel. The Lord commanded, “those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (v. 14), but Paul lays the right down. Verses 15–18 – Boasting Only in Preaching Free of Charge He would rather die than let anyone rob him of this boast: preaching without cost. Preaching is not optional—it is a stewardship. His reward is to offer it freely. Verses 19–23 – Becoming All Things to All People Free from all, Paul makes himself a servant to all—Jew, Greek, law-observant, law-ignorant, weak—so that “by all possible means” he might save some. The goal: share in the blessings of the gospel. Verses 24–27 – The Race and the Crown Like runners in the Isthmian Games near Corinth, believers must exercise discipline. Athletes chase a perishable wreath; Paul seeks an imperishable crown. He keeps his body under control so he will not preach to others and then be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9 delves into the life and work of an apostle, with Paul using his personal experiences to illustrate the topic. He asserts his apostolic rights but also explains his voluntary surrender of these rights for the benefit of others and the furtherance of the Gospel. Paul also highlights the necessity of self-discipline in the spiritual race to win an imperishable crown. Background and Setting Corinth was a bustling port city, proud of its wealth, cuisine, and athletic culture. After answering questions about food sacrificed to idols (chap. 8), Paul turns to his own example of relinquishing rights, modeling the self-denial he urges on the church. Paul’s Apostleship: Historical Verification • Acts 9, 22, and 26 detail Paul’s Damascus Road encounter, fulfilling the requirement of an eyewitness (Acts 1:22). • Galatians 1:11-12 states his gospel came “not from man.” • Signs, wonders, and conversions in Corinth (2 Corinthians 12:12) certify him as a genuine apostle. Occupational Support for Ministers • Jesus sent out the Twelve with no purse, declaring “the worker is worthy of his keep” (Matthew 10:10). • Early churches regularly supported teachers (Philippians 4:15-18; 1 Timothy 5:17-18). • Paul’s tent-making (Acts 18:1-3) shows bivocational ministry is honorable, yet optional. Old Testament Foundations • Deuteronomy 25:4 lies behind verse 9. Paul argues that God’s concern for animals demonstrates His concern for human laborers. • Levitical priests lived off tabernacle offerings (Numbers 18:8-24), paralleling gospel preachers today. The Principle of Voluntary Self-Denial • Romans 14:13-23 and 1 Corinthians 8 expand the theme: love sometimes limits liberty. • Jesus gave up heavenly glory to serve (Philippians 2:5-8). Paul follows the same pattern. Cross-Cultural Flexibility in Evangelism Paul never alters the message, but he adapts the method: 1. To Jews—synagogue reasoning, Scripture citations (Acts 13). 2. To Greeks—marketplace dialogue, creation foundations (Acts 17). 3. To the weak—simple language, shared hardship (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8). The guiding aim: salvation of hearers without diluting truth. Athletic Imagery in the Greco-Roman World Corinth hosted the Isthmian Games every two years. Competitors endured strict training: restricted diets, daily drills, and self-discipline. Citizens understood Paul’s metaphor instantly. Believers pursue holiness with equal intensity. Archaeological Insights: Corinth and Isthmian Games • Stadium ruins south of Corinth reveal starting blocks and judges’ seats, highlighting fairness and scrutiny—mirrors Paul’s fear of disqualification. • Inscriptions honor victors with pine-leaf crowns, now brittle, illustrating the temporary rewards Paul contrasts with the eternal crown (2 Timothy 4:8; 1 Peter 5:4). Applications for Churches Today • Financially support faithful pastors, yet honor those who waive this right. • Prioritize the gospel over personal comfort or cultural preferences. • Train like spiritual athletes—consistent prayer, Scripture intake, and accountability guard against moral collapse. • Engage diverse groups without compromising biblical truth, remembering that eternal crowns outshine every earthly trophy. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 2:5-8 Reflects on Christ's humility and self-sacrifice, paralleling Paul's willingness to give up his rights. Hebrews 12:1-2 Encourages believers to run the race with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus. Matthew 28:19-20 The Great Commission, which underscores the importance of spreading the Gospel to all nations. Teaching Points Paul's Apostolic Authority Paul begins by defending his rights as an apostle, stating, Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? (1 Corinthians 9:1). He establishes his credentials and the legitimacy of his ministry. Rights and Sacrifices Paul discusses his rights to material support, saying, If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you? (1 Corinthians 9:11). Yet, he willingly forgoes these rights to avoid hindering the Gospel. Becoming All Things to All People Paul emphasizes his adaptability for the sake of the Gospel: I have become all things to all people, so that by all possible means I might save some (1 Corinthians 9:22). His flexibility serves as a model for effective evangelism. The Race and the Prize Paul uses the metaphor of a race to describe the Christian life, urging believers to run in such a way as to get the prize (1 Corinthians 9:24). This imagery underscores the discipline and focus required in our spiritual journey. Practical Applications Evaluate Personal Sacrifices Consider what personal rights or comforts you might be called to sacrifice for the sake of advancing the Gospel. Adaptability in Ministry Reflect on how you can become all things to all people in your own context, finding ways to connect with others without compromising your faith. Spiritual Discipline Develop a plan for spiritual discipline, akin to an athlete's training, to strengthen your faith and witness. People 1. Paul Paul is the primary person mentioned in 1 Corinthians 9. He is the apostle writing the letter to the Corinthians, defending his rights as an apostle and explaining his approach to ministry. In verse 1, he asks, "Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?" (1 Corinthians 9:1). The Greek word for apostle, "ἀπόστολος" (apostolos), signifies one who is sent forth with a mission, emphasizing Paul's role and authority in spreading the Gospel. 2. Barnabas Barnabas is mentioned in verse 6 as a fellow worker with Paul. Paul refers to him when discussing the rights of apostles to receive material support: "Or are Barnabas and I the only apostles who must work for a living?" (1 Corinthians 9:6). Barnabas, whose name means "son of encouragement" in Aramaic, was a significant figure in the early church and a companion of Paul on his missionary journeys. Places 1. The Vineyard Paul uses the metaphor of a vineyard to discuss the rights of those who work in ministry. In 1 Corinthians 9:7, he asks, "Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit?" The Greek word for vineyard is "ἀμπελῶνα" (ampelōna), which is used metaphorically to represent the work and its rewards. 2. The Temple In 1 Corinthians 9:13, Paul refers to those who serve in the temple: "Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat of its food, and those who attend to the altar partake in the offerings?" The Greek word for temple is "ἱερῷ" (hierō), indicating the sacred place where priests perform their duties. 3. The Racecourse Paul uses the imagery of a race in 1 Corinthians 9:24: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize?" The Greek word for race is "στάδιον" (stadion), referring to the physical place where athletic competitions occur, symbolizing the Christian life as a race towards a spiritual goal. Events 1. Paul's Defense of His Apostleship Paul begins by defending his apostleship, asking rhetorical questions to affirm his authority and freedom as an apostle. He states, "Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?" (1 Corinthians 9:1). The Greek word for "apostle" (ἀπόστολος, apostolos) signifies one who is sent with a commission, emphasizing Paul's divine appointment. 2. Paul's Rights as an Apostle Paul discusses his rights as an apostle, including the right to receive material support from the church. He argues, "Do we not have the right to food and drink?" (1 Corinthians 9:4). The Greek term for "right" (ἐξουσία, exousia) implies authority or privilege, underscoring the legitimacy of his claims. 3. Examples from Everyday Life To illustrate his point, Paul uses examples from everyday life, such as a soldier, a vineyard worker, and a shepherd, to show that those who work have the right to benefit from their labor. He states, "Who serves as a soldier at his own expense?" (1 Corinthians 9:7). 4. Scriptural Support for Apostolic Rights Paul cites the Law of Moses to support his argument, quoting, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain" (1 Corinthians 9:9). This reference to Deuteronomy 25:4 highlights the principle that workers deserve their wages, extending this principle to spiritual labor. 5. Paul's Voluntary Sacrifice of Rights Despite having these rights, Paul explains that he has not used them, choosing instead to preach the gospel free of charge. He states, "But I have not used any of these rights" (1 Corinthians 9:15). This voluntary sacrifice is rooted in his desire to avoid hindering the gospel. 6. Paul's Compulsion to Preach Paul expresses a sense of divine compulsion to preach the gospel, declaring, "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!" (1 Corinthians 9:16). The Greek word for "woe" (οὐαί, ouai) conveys a deep sense of distress or calamity, emphasizing the seriousness of his calling. 7. Becoming All Things to All People Paul describes his strategy of becoming "all things to all people" to win as many as possible to Christ. He writes, "To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews" (1 Corinthians 9:20). This adaptability reflects his commitment to the mission of spreading the gospel. 8. The Goal of Winning the Prize Paul uses the metaphor of a race to describe the Christian life, urging believers to run in such a way as to win the prize. He states, "Run in such a way as to take the prize" (1 Corinthians 9:24). The Greek term for "prize" (βραβεῖον, brabeion) refers to the reward given to victors, symbolizing eternal life. 9. Self-Discipline and Control Paul emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, likening himself to an athlete who exercises control over his body. He writes, "I discipline my body and make it my slave" (1 Corinthians 9:27). The Greek word for "discipline" (ὑπωπιάζω, hypōpiazō) suggests rigorous self-control, essential for spiritual success. Lessons from 1 Corinthians 9 1. The Right to Receive Support In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul discusses the rights of an apostle, particularly the right to receive material support. He states, "If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you?" (1 Corinthians 9:11). This teaches us the importance of supporting those who dedicate their lives to spiritual work. Just as a farmer expects a harvest, those who labor in the Word deserve our support and encouragement. 2. Choosing to Forego Rights for the Gospel Paul exemplifies selflessness by choosing not to exercise his rights for the sake of the Gospel. He says, "But we did not use this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ" (1 Corinthians 9:12). This lesson encourages us to prioritize the spread of the Gospel over personal entitlements, demonstrating humility and dedication. 3. Becoming All Things to All People Paul's adaptability is a powerful lesson in evangelism. He writes, "To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews... I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some" (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). This teaches us the importance of understanding and connecting with others from different backgrounds to effectively share the message of Christ. 4. The Importance of Self-Discipline Paul compares the Christian life to an athlete's discipline, stating, "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training... I discipline my body and make it my slave" (1 Corinthians 9:25, 27). This highlights the necessity of self-control and discipline in our spiritual journey, reminding us that a focused and disciplined life leads to spiritual growth and effectiveness. 5. Running with Purpose Paul encourages us to run with purpose, saying, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize" (1 Corinthians 9:24). This lesson inspires us to live intentionally, with our eyes fixed on the eternal prize, ensuring that our actions align with our ultimate goal of glorifying God. 6. The Eternal Prize Paul contrasts the temporary rewards of this world with the eternal prize, stating, "They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable" (1 Corinthians 9:25). This reminds us to focus on the eternal rewards that come from living a life dedicated to Christ, rather than being distracted by temporary, worldly gains. 7. The Power of Example Paul sets an example for others, saying, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ" (1 Corinthians 11:1). This lesson emphasizes the impact of living a life that reflects Christ's teachings, encouraging others to follow suit. Our actions can inspire and lead others to a deeper relationship with God. 8. Sacrificing for the Sake of Others Paul's willingness to sacrifice his own rights for the benefit of others is a profound lesson in love and service. He writes, "Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible" (1 Corinthians 9:19). This teaches us the value of putting others' needs before our own, reflecting Christ's love and humility. 9. The Call to Evangelize Paul's passion for sharing the Gospel is evident when he says, "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!" (1 Corinthians 9:16). This lesson calls us to embrace our responsibility to share the Good News with urgency and enthusiasm, recognizing the transformative power of the Gospel in our lives and the lives of others. 10. Living with Integrity Throughout 1 Corinthians 9, Paul demonstrates integrity in his ministry, ensuring that his actions align with his message. He writes, "I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings" (1 Corinthians 9:23). This teaches us the importance of living a life of integrity, where our words and actions consistently reflect our faith and commitment to Christ. Topics 1. Paul’s Apostolic Authority (1 Corinthians 9:1-2) Paul begins by defending his authority as an apostle, emphasizing his personal encounter with Jesus Christ and his role in founding the Corinthian church. He asks rhetorical questions to affirm his apostleship: "Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not the result of my work in the Lord?" . The Greek word for "apostle" (ἀπόστολος, apostolos) signifies one who is sent with a commission, underscoring Paul's divine mandate. 2. Rights of an Apostle (1 Corinthians 9:3-6) Paul outlines the rights he possesses as an apostle, including the right to receive material support from the church. He questions, "Do we not have the right to food and drink? Do we not have the right to take along a believing wife, as do the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas?" . The Greek term for "right" (ἐξουσία, exousia) indicates authority or privilege. 3. Support for Ministers (1 Corinthians 9:7-14) Using analogies from everyday life, Paul argues that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from it. He references the law of Moses, "Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain," to illustrate that workers deserve their wages. The Greek word for "muzzle" (φιμῶ, phimoō) implies restraining or silencing, highlighting the fairness of compensating labor. 4. Paul’s Voluntary Sacrifice (1 Corinthians 9:15-18) Despite his rights, Paul chooses not to use them to avoid hindering the gospel. He states, "Yet I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me" . The Greek word for "use" (χράομαι, chraomai) suggests making use of or taking advantage of something. 5. Becoming All Things to All People (1 Corinthians 9:19-23) Paul describes his approach to ministry, adapting to different cultural contexts to win more people to Christ. He declares, "I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might save some" . The Greek phrase "all things to all men" (τοῖς πᾶσιν πάντα, tois pasin panta) reflects his flexibility and commitment to the mission. 6. The Need for Self-Discipline (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete to emphasize the importance of self-discipline in the Christian life. He writes, "I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified" . The Greek word for "discipline" (ὑπωπιάζω, hypōpiazō) conveys the idea of rigorous self-control and training. Themes 1. Apostolic Rights and Freedom In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul discusses his rights as an apostle, emphasizing his freedom to receive material support for his ministry. He states, "Am I not free? Am I not an apostle?" (1 Corinthians 9:1). The Greek word for "free" (ἐλεύθερος, eleutheros) underscores the liberty Paul has, yet he chooses not to exercise certain rights for the sake of the Gospel. 2. Support for Ministry Paul argues for the right of those who preach the Gospel to receive support, using examples from everyday life and the Old Testament. He writes, "If we have sown spiritual seed among you, is it too much if we reap a material harvest from you?" (1 Corinthians 9:11). The Greek term for "sown" (σπείρω, speirō) relates to planting, indicating the foundational work of ministry. 3. Voluntary Sacrifice for the Gospel Despite his rights, Paul chooses not to use them to avoid hindering the Gospel. He states, "But I have not used any of these rights" (1 Corinthians 9:15). The Greek word for "used" (χράομαι, chraomai) implies making use of something, highlighting Paul's deliberate choice to forgo his entitlements. 4. Becoming All Things to All People Paul describes his approach to ministry as becoming "all things to all people" to save some. He writes, "To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews" (1 Corinthians 9:20). The Greek phrase "to win" (κερδαίνω, kerdainō) suggests gaining or profiting, emphasizing the goal of winning souls for Christ. 5. Discipline and Self-Control Paul uses athletic metaphors to illustrate the need for discipline in the Christian life. He states, "I discipline my body and make it my slave" (1 Corinthians 9:27). The Greek word for "discipline" (ὑπωπιάζω, hypōpiazō) conveys the idea of rigorous self-control, akin to an athlete training for a competition. 6. The Imperishable Crown Paul contrasts the temporary rewards of earthly competitions with the eternal reward for believers. He writes, "They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable" (1 Corinthians 9:25). The Greek term for "imperishable" (ἄφθαρτος, aphthartos) signifies something that is incorruptible and eternal, pointing to the ultimate reward for faithful service. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Paul's Example Thank God for the example of Paul and his dedication to the Gospel. Strength to Sacrifice Pray for the strength and willingness to sacrifice personal rights for the sake of others knowing Christ. Wisdom in Evangelism Ask for wisdom to effectively share the Gospel in diverse contexts, becoming all things to all people. Endurance in the Race Seek God's help to run the spiritual race with endurance and focus, aiming for the eternal prize. As we study 1 Corinthians 9, may we be inspired by Paul's example to live lives of intentional sacrifice and commitment to the Gospel, always striving to bring others to Christ. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 1 Corinthians 9:1, Paul claims to have seen Jesus; how can this be verified historically or scientifically since no independent corroboration is provided? 2. In 1 Corinthians 9:4–14, Paul argues for financial support for apostles; how does that align with Jesus’s command in Matthew 10:8–10 to preach without seeking material gain? 3. In 1 Corinthians 9:19, Paul insists he has made himself a slave to everyone; how does this reconcile with the New Testament theme of freedom in Christ? 4. In 1 Corinthians 9:24–27, Paul compares spiritual discipline to athletic training; why aren’t there clearer instructions on scientifically recognized health practices or mental well-being? 5. In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul appeals to the Old Testament law (v.9) yet speaks of being under “Christ’s law” (v.21); how can skeptics be convinced there is no conflict between these two references? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's willingness to forego his rights challenge your perspective on your personal rights and privileges? 2. What does Paul's comparison of the Christian life to a race mean to you personally? 3. How do you relate to Paul's strategy of becoming "all things to all people" in order to save some? 4. How can you apply the principles of spiritual discipline that Paul discusses in this chapter? 5. Why do you think Paul chose to refuse the rights he could rightfully claim? 6. How can the modern church apply Paul's attitude towards his rights for the sake of the Gospel? 7. How does this chapter shape your understanding of Christian leadership and service? 8. How does the principle of denying oneself for the Gospel's sake apply to your life? 9. How does this chapter help us understand our responsibilities as believers in the context of our freedom in Christ? 10. How can you cultivate the same passion Paul had for the spread of the Gospel? 11. How does the concept of "running the race" inspire you in your daily walk with God? 12. How can you be more mindful of others in the way you exercise your Christian freedom? 13. What does the phrase "disciplining his body to keep it under control" mean in the context of your life? 14. What sacrifices might you be called to make for the sake of furthering the Gospel? 15. How do Paul's actions in this chapter model the teachings of Jesus? 16. How can we better balance our rights with our responsibilities as believers? 17. What are practical ways in which you can become "all things to all people"? 18. How can we as a church work together to run the race and keep our focus on the eternal prize? 19. How can you apply Paul's teachings in this chapter to enhance your spiritual discipline? 20. How does this chapter inspire you to adjust your life for the betterment of others and the spread of the Gospel? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions