What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 9:18? What then is my reward? Paul lifts the reader’s eyes to what ultimately motivates him. While the Lord has promised heavenly treasures for faithful service (Matthew 6:19-20; 2 Timothy 4:8), Paul’s “reward” here is also experienced now: • seeing lives transformed by the gospel he preaches (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20). • pleasing Christ, who “will render to each one according to his works” (Romans 2:6). • enjoying the privilege of serving without entanglements (1 Corinthians 3:8). This question highlights that Paul’s ministry goals are centered on Christ and others, not on personal gain. That in preaching the gospel Paul’s reward is tied directly to proclaiming “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). His life echoes the Great Commission (Mark 16:15) and the pastoral exhortation to “preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). By linking reward to gospel proclamation, he underlines that the highest privilege of any believer is communicating Christ’s finished work. I may offer it free of charge Although Scripture affirms that “the worker is worthy of his wages” (Luke 10:7; Galatians 6:6), Paul often set aside that right. • In Corinth he supported himself as a tent-maker (Acts 18:3). • He reminded the church, “Did I sin ... because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?” (2 Corinthians 11:7). • At Thessalonica he “worked night and day” so as not to burden them (1 Thessalonians 2:9). Offering the message freely protected it from accusations of profiteering and showcased God’s grace—salvation comes without cost to the hearer because Christ has paid in full. and so not use up my rights in preaching it Earlier in this chapter Paul argued that apostles have the right to material support (1 Corinthians 9:4-14). Yet he willingly relinquished that entitlement so nothing would hinder the gospel (2 Corinthians 6:3). Laying down legitimate rights: • models Christ, who “emptied Himself” for our sake (Philippians 2:5-7). • guards younger believers from stumbling over money issues (Romans 14:13). • keeps ministry motives transparent, silencing critics who might claim he preached for personal advantage (Acts 20:33-35). Paul proves that Christian liberty is best expressed in loving restraint, not self-assertion. summary Paul’s “reward” is the joy of preaching Christ unhindered. By forgoing financial rights, he demonstrates that the gospel is a free gift and removes any obstacle to its reception. His example invites believers to value eternal impact above earthly privileges and to serve others with the same self-giving spirit that marks the Savior. |
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