Feb 4, 2024
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:19-27
In the preceding passage, Paul cites his willingness to forgo his right to receive financial support from the Corinthians. He had done this because, in this instance, the gospel was heralded with greater power. In the present passage the apostle describes what his life looks like when it is governed by the greatness of the gospel of Christ.
One way his life was affected was that he lived in terms of practical flexibility. Though Paul is free from living his life according to the opinions of others, he subjects himself to all for the sake of the gospel. "I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them" (1 Cor 9:19).
Paul's life goal is the conversion of lost people to the light of Christ. Within the limitations of the Christian faith, Paul would be as 'Jewish' as necessary in order to win Jews to Christ. When Paul preached the gospel to Gentiles, he reasoned with them without quoting the Old Testament. "I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some" (1 Cor 9:22)
A second way Paul's life was affected by the gospel was in terms of personal discipline. He was careful to guard himself, lest he tarnish the gospel and disqualify himself from being a herald of the truth.
Let us be so consumed by the glories of the gospel that we look for ways to spread its truth. And let us be so taken by the gospel of Christ that we carefully guard ourselves against anything that would mar the name of Jesus.