1 Corinthians 9:16-23: The Reward of Evangelism
The Apostle's Burden
In 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, the apostle Paul shares his burden for evangelism and the reward that comes with it. As an apostle of Christ, Paul understood the importance of spreading the Gospel to all nations.
The Necessity of Evangelism
In verse 16, Paul writes, "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!" (NKJV). Here, Paul emphasizes the necessity of evangelism, stating that it is not optional, but a duty that has been entrusted to him.
The Reward of Evangelism
In verse 18, Paul explains that he has not used his authority as an apostle to take financial gain from the Corinthians. Instead, he has chosen to sacrifice his own needs for the sake of the Gospel. "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." (NKJV)
The Principle of Evangelism
In verses 19-23, Paul explains the principle of evangelism. He writes, "For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel's sake, that I may be partaker of it with you." (NKJV)
Here, Paul highlights the importance of adapting to different cultures and situations in order to effectively spread the Gospel. He is willing to become all things to all men, that he might win some to Christ.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Paul emphasizes the importance of evangelism and the reward that comes with it. He understands that spreading the Gospel is not optional, but a duty that has been entrusted to him. As believers, we are called to follow Paul's example, sacrificing our own needs for the sake of the Gospel, and adapting to different cultures and situations in order to effectively spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.
