Useful to GodSample

Consumed with Passion for the Lost

Perhaps our passion for the lost is best measured by our willingness to set aside our rights and preferences so that we “might save some” (1 Cor 9:23). When Paul addresses the Corinthians, he reminds them that he is an apostle (9:1-2) and has certain apostolic rights (9:3-12). Citing Deuteronomy 25:4, Paul reminds the Corinthians that those who labor have the right to expect that they will share in the fruits of that labor (9:9-12; 13-14).

Yet, Paul has chosen to set aside these rights opting instead to “endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ” (9:12). Paul’s reward does not come from asserting his rights, but from presenting “the gospel free of charge” (9:18).

Not only does Paul set aside his right for payment, but he also makes himself a “servant to all, that I might win more of them” (9:19). Paul understands the position he occupies in Christ. He understands that he is no longer “under the law,” yet he becomes “as one under the law…that I might win those under the law” (9:20). Despite being “under the law of Christ,” he becomes “as one outside the law…to win those outside the law (9:21). He becomes weak to win the weak (9:22).

Paul is convinced of the truth. He has deep theological convictions about the Triune God, various doctrines, and what it means to live the Christian life. His convictions are so deep that he can live and speak faithfully to people who have a different understanding of the world and the ways in which it is broken. Driven by a passion to “save some,” Paul becomes “all things to all people” (9:22). As he seeks to share in the blessings of the gospel with others (9:23), Paul is careful to maintain control of himself “lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified” (9:23-27).

Rather than demanding we get what is rightfully ours or grounding our identity so deeply in a theological tradition or denomination, may we imitate Paul. May our passion for winning others to Christ press us not to become unfaithful but to be wise as we set aside our own rights and preferences so that “by all means, I might save some” (9:22).