The Apostle Paul's Reward
In 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, the Apostle Paul writes about his motivation and reward for preaching the Gospel. Let's dive deeper into this passage and explore what it means for our lives today.
The Apostle's Motivation
"For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!" (1 Corinthians 9:16, NKJV)
Paul's motivation for preaching the Gospel is not rooted in personal gain or recognition. Rather, he feels a deep sense of responsibility and obligation to share the Good News. He believes that he has been entrusted with a sacred task, and failure to fulfill it would bring him shame and sorrow. This sense of duty drives him to preach the Gospel, regardless of the circumstances.
The Apostle's Reward
"For if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship." (1 Corinthians 9:17, NKJV)
Paul's reward is not measured in earthly terms, such as wealth, status, or popularity. Rather, his reward is the joy and satisfaction of fulfilling his divine calling. He is motivated by a desire to please God, not to impress men. When we serve others willingly, out of love and obedience to God, we can experience a sense of fulfillment and joy that surpasses any earthly reward.
The Apostle's Stewardship
"What is my reward then? That, when I preach the gospel, I may offer the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my authority in the gospel." (1 Corinthians 9:18, NKJV)
Paul's stewardship is centered on sharing the Gospel of Christ freely, without expecting anything in return. He recognizes that his authority and influence are not for personal gain, but for the benefit of others. As followers of Christ, we too are called to be good stewards of our time, talents, and resources, using them to serve others and advance the Kingdom of God.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 9:16-18, we see the Apostle Paul's heart and motivation for preaching the Gospel. He is driven by a sense of responsibility, duty, and love for God and others. As we reflect on this passage, let us be reminded of our own calling to serve others and share the Good News. May we, like Paul, be motivated by a desire to please God and serve others, rather than seeking personal recognition or reward.
