Why did Paul choose to preach "free of charge" to the Corinthians? Setting the Scene in Corinth Corinth buzzed with commerce and competing philosophies. Traveling speakers often charged handsome fees. Into that climate stepped Paul—tent-making by day, gospel-preaching by night—determined to stand apart. Paul’s Heart Behind a Price Tag of Zero 2 Corinthians 11:7: “Was it a sin for me to humble myself in order to exalt you, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?” What motivated him? • Humbling himself so the Corinthians could be “exalted” in Christ—placing their spiritual welfare above his material comfort. • Refusing to exercise a legitimate right. 1 Corinthians 9:12: “We have not exercised this right. Instead, we endure everything in order not to hinder the gospel of Christ.” • Choosing the posture of a servant, echoing Jesus’ own example (Philippians 2:5-7). Guarding the Gospel from Obstacles • Money can muddy motives. By removing fees, Paul cleared away suspicion and let the message shine. • 1 Corinthians 9:18: “That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use my rights as a preacher of the gospel.” • 2 Corinthians 12:13: “I was not a burden to you.” No financial burden meant no stumbling block. Distancing Himself from Opportunists • Corinth knew slick orators who profited from listeners. Paul’s unpaid ministry drew a sharp line between him and “false apostles” (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). • His tentmaking (Acts 18:3) backed up his words with visible integrity. • 1 Thessalonians 2:9 and 2 Thessalonians 3:8 show the pattern: working so no one could accuse him of greed. Living Out the Example of Christ • 2 Corinthians 8:9: “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor.” • Paul mirrored that sacrificial generosity. Free grace deserved a messenger who modeled grace. Inviting Application Today • Hold the gospel high—strip away anything that could cloud its clarity. • Serve with open hands, trusting God’s provision rather than people’s payments. • Let personal sacrifice authenticate the message, just as Paul’s unpaid ministry confirmed his sincere love for the Corinthians. |
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