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I Corinthians 9

Some Corinthians have questions about Paul’s rights as an apostle. Paul affirms his authority by explaining that he has the right to receive financial support for his ministry, just as workers in other fields earn from their labor. However, Paul willingly relinquishes this right to prevent hindering the gospel or causing others to stumble. He emphasizes that his ultimate goal is to win as many people as possible to Christ. To achieve this, he adapts to various audiences, becoming “all things to all people” while remaining true to God’s law. Paul likens the Christian life to a race, urging believers to exercise self-discipline and strive for an eternal crown. Ultimately, he encourages the Corinthians to concentrate on spreading the gospel and living with purpose, self-control, and commitment to Christ’s mission.

Discipline in Christ requires focus and intentionality in our choices and relationships. While we have the freedom to live as redeemed believers, we are called to concentrate on positively influencing others and advancing the gospel. Paul willingly surrendered his rights, adapting his approach to meet people where they were so he might draw people closer to Christ. Not everyone shares the same level of spiritual maturity, whether in the church or outside of it. This means we must be willing to adjust our own approach, words, and methods to have the greatest influence on others for Christ. This will take discipline, like that of an athlete, as we pursue the eternal wreath for ourselves and as many others as possible.   

Compassionate Lord, thank You for the example of Paul’s humility and dedication. Help us live with a spirit of perspective, recognizing the weight of our impact on others within the church and the world. Teach us to be willing to set aside our desires for the sake of others so that we may demonstrate Christ-like love. Show us how adjustments on our part can make the gospel more shareable with the people in our lives. We will run this race with endurance, exhibiting self-control, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the gospel.  Lead us to others we can help along the way.  

Thought Questions:

-       “Am I not free?” What is wrong with this question? Why must you move past yourself and consider others when making decisions?

-       What adjustments have you made recently “so that [you] may win the more”? How might your changes need to come first for others to change?

-       Are you running the race of faith with discipline and devotion? What are specific decisions you are making that would defend your answer?