1 Corinthians 9 explained: Giving Up Rights for Others

Paul's credentials (vv. 1-2)

Some in Corinth doubted that Paul was a true apostle, meaning one personally sent by Jesus, so he points out that he had seen the risen Jesus himself. The church in Corinth, which began through his preaching, is his proof, like a seal stamped on a document to show it is genuine.

The right to be supported (vv. 3-11)

Paul says that, like Peter (Cephas) and Jesus' own brothers, he had the right to food and drink from the churches, and to bring a believing wife along, just as soldiers, farmers and shepherds live off their work. He applies a law from Moses about letting an ox eat the grain it is trampling to separate it from the stalks, reading it as a principle that workers should share in what they produce.

A right he chose not to use (vv. 12-14)

Temple priests ate from the offerings, and Jesus taught that those who spread the good news should be supported by it. Yet Paul worked at his own trade, making tents, so that no one could accuse him of preaching for money.

Why he preaches for free (vv. 15-18)

Paul says preaching is not something he can take credit for, because he feels compelled to do it. What he can take pride in is offering it at no cost, and he says he would rather die than lose that.

All things to all people (vv. 19-23)

Though no one owns him, Paul puts himself at everyone's service. He follows Jewish customs among Jewish people, sets them aside among non-Jews, and makes room for those with sensitive consciences, while still holding himself answerable to Christ's way.

Training for the prize (vv. 24-27)

Corinth hosted the famous Isthmian Games, where winners received a wreath of leaves that soon withered. Paul compares his own self-discipline to an athlete's training, aiming for a lasting prize and not wanting to be ruled out of it himself after urging it on others.

Key verse: 1 Corinthians 9:19

Something to think about

Is there a right or freedom you hold that you would willingly give up if it got in the way of something you cared about more?