June 10, 1 Corinthians 9
Social and political movements have worked to establish and secure the rights of certain groups throughout our history. Indeed, one of the founding principles of our nation was that we were endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights. In a land that treasures freedom, champions equality, and upholds liberty and justice for all, it’s not surprising to find a strong emphasis on individual rights.
Have we become far more concerned and vocal about our rights than our responsibilities—finding insult in every remark, and offense in every action? Jesus calls us to deny self to follow him. Yet many Christians campaign for their “rights” even in the church. American culture (or maybe just human flesh) teaches us to demand on our way and fight for our rights. But Paul taught believers to resist the urge to insist on always getting their way.
Paul talked about liberties and privileges he was free to enjoy. But he refused his rights, if exercising them might put an obstacle in the gospel’s path. If taking support for preaching the gospel hindered or diminished his effectiveness, he refused the support. He had a right to be married, and to be supported as a preacher. But he chose not to exercise those rights. Scripture gives clear authority and example for those who minister being supported by the people they serve. The Lord authorized paying ministers of the gospel. But Paul found a reward in refusing the support to present the gospel free of charge.
We sometimes seem to have it backward about crossing cultural divides to reach people. We discuss outreach to different ethnic or social groups. But too often our practice has been, “We’re open for business and we invite you to come. Learn our habits, songs and encoded jargon, and you can be one of us.” Paul was willing to be the one to leave his comfort zone to go wherever people were to share Christ with them. He was willing to become all things to all people to win them to Christ. He wanted them to share in the blessings of the gospel.
Paul cited athletic training as an example of self-denial. Like their modern counterparts in the Olympics, ancient athletes trained and dieted to tune their bodies to compete at the highest level in world-wide competition. The athletes learned endurance by pushing themselves. Their effort was not futile exertion; the goal was to win, to be the best, to be the one who clinched the evergreen garland of victory. Paul said a far greater crown of victory awaited not just one runner, but all those who learned to submit to Christ. So he disciplined his body and made it his slave. An undisciplined body will be the master of an uncommitted will.
Self-denial and self-control are key components of a disciple’s walk. Let’s imitate Paul (and Jesus) by being less concerned with our rights and more concerned with God’s glory.
From The Abiding Companion: A Friendly Guide for Your Journey Through the New Testament,
Copyright © 2010 by Michael B. McElroy. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Today in God's Word—June 2024
East Tallassee Church of Christ
Comments