What sacrifices might God call us to make for the gospel's sake? The Verse at the Center “ I do it all for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings.” — 1 Corinthians 9:23 The Heart Behind Paul’s Words • Paul willingly surrendered personal privileges to remove any obstacle to the gospel. • His motivation: others would hear, believe, and join him in the blessings of Christ. Rights Laid Down • Context (1 Corinthians 9:4-12): Paul had the right to financial support, yet worked with his own hands. • Principle: be ready to relinquish legitimate entitlements when they hinder gospel advance. – Philippians 2:5-7: “Christ Jesus…emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant.” Comfort Forsaken • 2 Timothy 2:3: “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.” • Sacrifice ease, convenience, familiar routines to reach hard places or difficult people. Resources Reallocated • Hebrews 13:16: “Do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • God may prompt generous giving—finances, possessions, skills—to fuel gospel work. Relationships Reordered • Luke 14:26: loyalty to Christ must surpass every earthly bond. • When convictions clash with family or friends, choose faithfulness to Christ, seasoned with love. Time Invested • Ephesians 5:16: “Make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” • Rearrange schedules for evangelism, discipleship, church service, mission trips. Reputation Risked • Acts 5:41: apostles “rejoiced that they had been counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name.” • Accept misunderstanding, ridicule, or hostility for standing on biblical truth. Life Itself Offered • Acts 20:24: “I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish my course and the ministry I received from the Lord Jesus: to testify to the gospel of God’s grace.” • Martyrdom remains a real calling for some; all believers embrace daily dying to self (Luke 9:23). Living It Out Today • Hold earthly rights loosely, gospel priorities tightly. • Ask: “What hinders others from seeing Christ in me?” Then surrender it. • Trust that any cost is temporary; the blessings shared are eternal (Mark 10:29-30). |
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