The Way - Day 071 (1 Corinthians 9)

Pastor Tom's Journal on Today's Reading:
1 Corinthians 9
The church of Corinth struggled with several issues which had been causing division, but Paul wrote this letter to them to bring a fuller understanding to these areas of contention.  He had already confronted them regarding the disunity (1 Corinthians 1-4), immorality (1 Corinthians 5-6), marriage (1 Corinthians 7), and personal freedom (1 Corinthians 8).  The issue of personal freedom had plagued the church, especially considering the distinct background of the Jews and Gentiles.  Gentiles were much more cautious about this newfound freedom in Christ because of their past experience with idol worship; however, the Jews embraced this freedom which resulted in offending the Gentiles who were new believers.  Paul brought clarity to both sides by explaining to the Gentiles that they should not be concerned about eating meat which had been sold in the idol market; however, Paul warned the Jews not to abuse their personal freedom in case they became a stumbling block for the Gentiles.

In order to further explain this principle of personal freedom, Paul used an illustration of him giving up his own liberty.  Paul was a genuine apostle of Jesus Christ (9:1-2) and had every right to be financially supported by the churches to whom he ministered (9:3-18).  He asks the following question, "If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things?" (9:11). The understood answer to his question was "yes."  Paul had every right to receive financial support for his spiritual work; however, he gave up this freedom to be financially supported by the church so that the gospel would not be hindered (9:12).  There were many false teachers who were greedy for money and Paul did not want anyone to associate him with them; therefore, he gave up his rights and chose to make his living through tent making.  This perfectly illustrated the principle of personal freedom.  As Christians we have many liberties, but some are not beneficial to those who may be weak in the faith.  Paul wrote, "For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more" (9:19).  He adapted his ministry and behavior in order to respect the cultures and backgrounds of others (9:20-22) and to, ultimately, preach the gospel to them (9:23).  The key to not abusing personal freedom is to practice self control, which takes mental discipline and determination (9:24-27).  If the church of Corinth would respect others and practice self control, they would find unity and spiritual maturity.

Dear God, help me to be respectful to other cultures and backgrounds that I might be an effective witness of Your gospel.