The Greek word (kerdaino) which means “to gain,” “acquire,” or “win (over)” was used five times in 1 Corinthians 9:19-22 by Apostle Paul.

It was a transactional term used in the ancient business world to describe making a profit or trading up for something better.

In effect, Paul saw himself as an agent of Jesus Christ offering lost people something far greater than they had.

Were people enslaved to sin? Paul wanted to win them over to forgiveness and freedom in Christ.

Were they futilely attempting to gain their own salvation by keeping the law? Paul sought to win them over to the grace of the gospel.

He said, “I have become all things to all people, so that I may by every possible means save some.” (1 Corinthians 9:22) He was laser-focused on soul-winning.

For him, it was a personal choice and commitment toward winning people to Christ irrespective of their race, status, and position in the society.