How does 1 Corinthians 9:18 encourage us to share the gospel freely? Setting the Scene “What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it.” (1 Corinthians 9:18) Paul is wrapping up a discussion about his legitimate right to receive material support as an apostle (9:4-14). Instead of insisting on that right, he deliberately sets it aside so nothing clouds the message. His reward is the satisfaction of seeing people receive Christ without any hint of financial obligation. The Heart Behind “Free of Charge” • Love removes barriers—Paul knows money can confuse motives. • Humility lifts Jesus higher—refusing pay keeps the spotlight on the cross, not the preacher. • Faith trusts God’s provision—Paul believes the Lord will supply his needs through other means (Philippians 4:19). • Joy flows from giving—he delights in seeing lives changed with no strings attached. Principles for Us Today 1. Guard the purity of the message • Nothing must compete with “Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). • Keep methods simple, clear, and focused. 2. Remove every possible obstacle • “We endure all things so as not to hinder the gospel of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 9:12) • If finances, status, or personal preference might distract, set them aside. 3. Freely give what we have freely received • “Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8) • Salvation cost Jesus everything; it should cost listeners nothing. 4. Trust God, not compensation • Paul tells the Ephesian elders, “I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing… It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:33-35) • Whether vocationally supported or volunteer, our dependency rests on God. Practical Ways to Offer the Gospel Freely • Share your testimony over coffee, buying the cup yourself. • Use free digital platforms—blogs, social media, videos—to get Scripture out. • Volunteer in community outreaches where the good news is presented without cost. • Provide Bibles or gospel tracts at your own expense. • Support missionaries who model Paul’s approach, ensuring the message remains untainted by financial expectations. Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Isaiah 55:1—“Come, buy without money and without cost.” The invitation is grace-based, not fee-based. • 2 Corinthians 11:7—Paul repeats that he “preached… free of charge.” It wasn’t a one-time gesture. • 1 Thessalonians 2:5-9—He labored night and day “so as not to be a burden,” proving the pattern. • 1 Peter 5:2—Shepherd “not for shameful gain, but eagerly,” echoing the same heartbeat. Our Ultimate Reward Paul’s “reward” isn’t a paycheck; it is the eternal joy of seeing people reconciled to God. When we share the gospel freely: • Christ is honored. • Hearers encounter grace without distraction. • We store up treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:20). • We experience the deep fulfillment Paul describes. 1 Corinthians 9:18 challenges every believer to strip away costs, clutter, and self-interest, so the priceless news of Jesus flows unhindered to a world that desperately needs it. |
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