Testimony and ToleranceSample

All things to all people

In 1 Corinthians 9:19-23, Paul explains how he testifies to various groups of people. Some interpret all things to all people (v.22) as an excuse to act and speak in ways that are contrary to the Gospel if “the end justifies the means”.

Paul's words need to be well understood. He is simply saying that in his life among the people to be evangelized, he did not emphasize differences but tried to approach them based on the things they had in common.

That this did not involve sin or compromise with the truth is clear from the following passage (1 Corinthians 9:24-27), where the apostle speaks of personal discipline to avoid being disqualified. We understand the use of this word in sports: those who do not follow the rules are barred from the competition. Paul had no intention of finding himself in this kind of situation!

Let us also learn to start with what we have in common with the people we witness to rather than pointing out differences. In time, they will understand the differences that obedience to the gospel entails.