Sunday, October 25, 2026

#1683 1 Corinthians 10 Part 2 To Prudent People

 



14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. 15 I speak as to prudent people. You judge what I say. 16 Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body of Christ? 17 Since there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. 18 Look at the nation Israel. Are not those who eat the sacrifices sharers in the altar? 19 What do I mean then? That a thing sacrificed to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything? 20 No, but I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons and not to God. And I do not want you to become sharers in demons. 21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. 22 Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He?

23 All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things build up. 24 Let no one seek his own good, but that of the other person. 25 Eat anything that is sold in the meat market without asking questions for conscience’ sake. 26 For the earth is the Lord’s, as well as its fullness. 27 If one of the unbelievers invites you and you want to go, eat anything that is set before you without asking questions for conscience’ sake. 28 But if anyone says to you, “This is meat consecrated to idols,” do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for conscience’ sake. 29 I do not mean your own conscience, but the other person’s. For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience? 30 If I partake with gratefulness, why am I slandered concerning that for which I give thanks?

31 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 32 Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God; 33 just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit but the profit of the many, so that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10: 14-33 LSB

1 Corinthians 10: 14-33

V. 14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry - This is following the point made in the last chapter that there is no temptation that is not common to all men, and that the Lord has provided a way of escape. What were some examples in Scripture, think of the righteousness of Joseph, daily being tempted by Potiphar's wife, yet he literally fled, ran from her. He was faithful to his God even when it seemed to lead towards more heartache, even when it made him less than popular. He was the best slave, the best prisoner, because of his fidelity to the true God, but much like Mordecai his integrity wasn't always appreciated. There are times in business that you will have to excuse yourself, like when you are taken to a meeting at a strip club. Why? Because Christ has said even looking upon a woman to lust after her is the same as committing adultery. It is not hidden from Him because he sees your heart, and you have now hurt your witness to the unbelievers and have created a stumbling block for new believers. If you say it is nothing, that these things have no effect upon you, then you are a liar. I used to excuse myself when confronted by Christians or pastors about the clubs and festivals I attended, stating, "Jesus ate with tax collectors and prostitutes." That was gross, because Jesus did not participate in their idolatry, did not solicit their sinful services, in fact, when dealing with a woman in Samaria he pointed out her sin. When dealing with the woman caught in adultery, he forgave her sin and told her to go and sin no more. Missionaries have had the very tense privilege of having to inform the tribal people they are trying to reach that they can't participate in the worship of their gods, because they have come to tell them about the only true God. The early Christians lost jobs due to guilds which are much like our modern unions, but were represented by a god or goddess. In order to work you had to worship at the temple of Artemis, or also called Diana of the Ephesians. This is the problem with most American Christians, I don't think their version of Christianity would stand against the loss of their comforts. I know this because I watch them every day and most can't bare the thought of  not being liked for telling the truth, so they are silent, they just try to fit in. Is that not an idol? 

…10Then Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?” 11“No one, Lord,” she answered. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Now go and sin no more.” 12Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.”… John 8: 10-12


Vs. 15-18 I speak as to prudent people - This is something you are going to have to think about, carefully, lest you err on the side of the kind of legalism that attempts to remove itself completely from this world, or the kind of liberty that becomes a stumbling block or antinomianism. The irony of saying this to the group that thinks they are so spiritually grown. Paul uses the example of communion, in the sharing in Christ's death, that He died for our sins, and so we ought to live unto Him. It is a solemn thing that we do not offer to non believers as a spiritual tourism experience, and we even discourage believers from partaking in if they have unrepentant sin. Paul recognizes that though you may not believe that way about a particular custom or cult practice, that you know an idol is nothing, yet you should not partake with them and wound their conscience. 

I (present tense - continually) speak as to wise men; you judge what I say - Amplified = "I am speaking as to intelligent (sensible) men. Think over and make up your minds [for yourselves] about what I say. [I appeal to your reason and your discernment in these matters.]" Paul speaks to them assuming they will be men and women who will give his words careful thought. Then he gives a command to make a determination or discernment and in this context the decision is between what is good (cup of blessing...bread) and what is evil (partaking of idolatrous worship). Paul's command to the Corinthians recalls his similar command to the saints at Thessalonica (they also had significant exposure to pagan idolatry) Judge is aorist imperative calling on need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey

But examine (dokimazo in present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) everything (MAKE NO EXCEPTIONS!) carefully; hold fast (katecho in present imperative) to that which is good; 22 abstain (apechomai in present imperative from every form (eidos - generally something's outward form and was used of pagan idols) of evil.(1 Th 5:21-22)

MacArthur on as to wise men - Paul gives them the benefit of any doubt and assumes that, if they listen carefully, they will by the Spirit be able to judge correctly what he says. His exhortation is simple, scriptural, and logical. - Precept Austin

…2“Hear my words, O wise men; give ear to me, O men of learning. 3For the ear tests words as the mouth tastes food. 4Let us choose for ourselves what is right; let us learn together what is good.… Job 34: 2-4


…20Do not treat prophecies with contempt, 21but test all things. Hold fast to what is good. 22Abstain from every form of evil.… 1 Thessalonians 5: 20-22

Swindoll - When believers properly partake of the bread and wine of communion, they participate in a confession of faith that they can see, taste, smell, touch, and hear. In the fullest physical sense, believers confess the incarnation of the God-man, who took on real flesh and blood (John 1:14), who died for our sins and rose from the dead to give us new life. With Christ presiding at the table as the host of His supper and by participating in the “cup of blessing” and the “one bread,” believers are fellowshipping with Him through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). They are also fellowshipping with one another as “one body,” united in this solemn observance (1 Cor. 10:17). (Swindoll's Living Insights New Testament Commentary – 1 & 2 Corinthians) - PA

MacArthur on sharers in the altar - to sacrifice to an idol is to identify with it, to participate with the idol and with all others who sacrifice to it. Religious ceremonies, whether Christian or pagan, involve participation of the worshipers with the object of their worship and with each other. Thus it is completely inconsistent for believers to participate in any expression of worship that is apart from and contrary to their Lord.  - PA

Vs. 19-22 They sacrifice to demons and not to God - We know that the idol is nothing, that it is just wood, stone or metal, but we were made to worship, and everyone still does, even in their fallen state. If you don't worship the One Who made you, then there is someone who is quite delighted to eat it up another way, even when his name is not directly used. Satan wanted to be worshiped as God, and interestingly enough, at the end of this age, the false prophet and the antichrist will give an image a voice and people will bow down and worship it. Many seek worshipers, have an idol of self that wants glory, and will always look for a stage to be elevated on. Behind the dead image is the demonic that celebrates your worship of the false. 

…13You said in your heart: “I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God. I will sit on the mount of assembly, in the far reaches of the north. 14I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.” 15But you will be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit.… Isaiah 14: 13-15



…14Because of the signs it was given to perform on behalf of the first beast, it deceived those who dwell on the earth, telling them to make an image to the beast that had been wounded by the sword and yet had lived. 15 The second beast was permitted to give breath to the image of the first beast, so that the image could speak and cause all who refused to worship it to be killed. 16And the second beast required all people small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on their right hand or on their forehead,… Revelation 13: 14-16

Vs. 23-24 Let no one seek his own good - We are not deciding strictly for ourselves, but also for the weaker brother. 

Vs. 25-27 Without asking questions for conscience sake - You can eat anything innocently, it's just food set before you, so don't ask about it, don't create an issue where there isn't one. 

Vs. 28-30 But if anyone says to you, "this is meat sacrificed to idols" - This is where it changes, it is a test of conscience, and for many if you eat then they think that you have put down the true God, and in this they wrongly rejoice, but it is a stumbling block. For a weaker believer, as we have discussed before, he cannot separate the two things, and so sees eating it as part of the worship, though he did not take it to be sacrificed and it is logically still just meat. For his sake and that of the unbeliever you don't eat. 

Vs. 31-33 Whether you eat or drink...do all to the glory of God - It's not about you.







































































































Monday, October 19, 2026

#1682 1 Corinthians 10 Part 1 Knowing Vs. Obeying

 




For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea; 2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 and all ate the same spiritual food; 4 and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them, and the rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased. For they were struck down in the wilderness. 6 Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved.

7 Do not be idolaters, as some of them were. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and stood up to play.” 8 Nor let us act in sexual immorality, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day. 9 Nor let us put Christ to the test, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents. 10 Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer. 11 Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have arrived. 12 Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. 13 No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man, but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10: 1-13 LSB

1 Corinthians 10: 1-13 Common to Man

Wayne Barber observes that in chapter 10 we "are going to talk about a caution to the strong... the whole context... beginning in chapter 8, is to the strong, those who understand, who have experienced, who have had the high privilege of the things of God. And once we have understood and God has allowed us to experience the Word of God in our Christian walk and we are labeled "the strong," we have a greater responsibility...The responsibility is always heavier upon them. The apostle Paul has been talking about sports (1 Cor 9:24-27) No athlete,who is running to win the prize, wants to be disqualified and taken out of the race. The apostle Paul is saying that the Christian life is like a race from beginning to end. Just like an athlete, no Christian who has experienced the things of God, who understands the Word of God, wants to be taken out of the action and benched. He wants to be where God can use him. He wants to be a vessel through which God can do His work. (cf 2 Ti 2:21) When an athlete stops making the choices of self-denial, it is at that point he becomes disqualified. But in the Christian life it is the same way. Being saved and experiencing the things of God does not necessarily guarantee you are going to be used of God. In other words, the way you started is the way you continue and finish. That is what Paul is trying to get across in making his comparison of the athlete and the runner. His whole context is to the strong, to those who understand, to those who have experienced the grace of God. He says, “You guys need to understand something. You are about to be disqualified. You are not mixing love with your knowledge, therefore you have become arrogant. That is his whole context back in chapter 8. So he says to all of us who have experienced being used of God, those of us who have experienced the grace of God and the understanding of His Word, “Now listen, you continue to learn the discipline of denying self. It never stops, because if you stop and choose the other way, you will be benched and somebody else will take your place. You are not indispensable. You are dispensable when it comes to being used in the Christian life.” Well, because of this, in chapter 10 Paul brings a caution to the believers, trying to shock them back into reality, and so he brings up the nation of Israel and gives a warning. To those who have experienced (the privileges of God - see their "privileges" in 1 Cor 1:2, 4-5, 7, 9) look out. Israel was a nation that experienced the privileges of God, but a nation who by their own choosing, chose the way of the flesh rather than the way of God and missed out on all the things that God had prepared for them. Paul says, “Believers, don’t you do the same thing. Learn from Israel.” - PA

V. 1 Under the cloud and all passed through the sea - So with Barber's back drop let us proceed. Israel was brought out of bondage in Egypt, experienced God in the wilderness, the Shekinah glory, the cloud by day that became fire by night and kept their outward enemies at bay. Paul is speaking to the Corinthians who think themselves strong and mature. He is telling them, "this is nothing new, you are not the first to receive knowledge of God, to experience the things of God." Israel was set apart by God to be a light and beacon to the nations, and though they willfully chose not to glorify God, to return to the idolatry of Egypt, yet God is still glorified in His justice against their sin. This is the warning to the Church today. 

…19And the angel of God, who had gone before the camp of Israel, withdrew and went behind them. The pillar of cloud also moved from before them and stood behind them, 20so that it came between the camps of Egypt and Israel. The cloud was there in the darkness, but it lit up the night. So all night long neither camp went near the other. 21Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove back the sea with a strong east wind that turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided,… Exodus 14: 19-21


V. 2 And all were baptized into Moses - This brings up a picture of baptism, in most minds, of being dunked in the water, but this is not the picture here. It is more about the who, and they were baptized into the leadership of Moses, as Christians are baptized into the leadership, headship of Christ. They were identifying with Moses' relationship to God as their mediator as well. He brings them the law of God on the stone tablets. It is the covenant of do this and you shall live, and they all agreed to it.

…28Then they heaped insults on him and said, “You are His disciple; we are disciples of Moses. 29We know that God spoke to Moses, but we do not know where this man is from.” 30“That is remarkable indeed!” the man said. “You do not know where He is from, and yet He opened my eyes.… John 9: 28-30


…2He was faithful to the One who appointed Him, just as Moses was faithful in all God’s house. 3For Jesus has been counted worthy of greater glory than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. 4And every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything.… Hebrews 3: 2-4

…2Certainly not! How can we who died to sin live in it any longer? 3Or aren’t you aware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.… Romans 6: 2-4


26You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.… Galatians 3: 26-28

Vs. 3-4 And the Rock was Christ - Look back at Exodus 14 above. Throughout the OT we hear mentions of the Angel of the Lord (Angel means Messenger), and here the apostle identifies Him as Christ. 

MacArthur explains "God used a boulder (petra) to provide water for Israel on one occasion. (IN OTHER WORDS IT THIS WAS NOT A ROCK CONTINUALLY ROLLING BEHIND ISRAEL) But the spiritual rock which followed them throughout their journeys was not that small boulder but the great rock of Christ. That supernatural rock protected and sustained His people and would not allow them to perish. Old Testament believers did not have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, but even during the Exodus they had the sustaining presence of the preexistent Messiah, the preincarnate Christ, caring for and fulfilling the needs of His people. The point of all these affirmations is to recount the privileges of Israel, the assets of her deliverance." (Bolding added) - PA

Meaning of the Term: The Hebrew word malák simply means "messenger". However, unlike standard angels who refer to God in the third person, this specific figure regularly speaks in the first person as Yahweh ("I AM") - Covenant Baptist Theology

11Just then the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, “Abraham, Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. 12“Do not lay a hand on the boy or do anything to him,” said the angel, “for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your only son from me.” 13Then Abraham looked up and saw behind him a ram in a thicket, caught by its horns. So he went and took the ram and offered it as a burnt offering in place of his son.… Genesis 22: 11-13


20Behold, I am sending an angel before you to protect you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared. 21Pay attention to him and listen to his voice; do not defy him, for he will not forgive rebellion, since My Name is in him. 22But if you will listen carefully to his voice and do everything I say, I will be an enemy to your enemies and a foe to your foes.… Exodus 23: 20-22


Vs. 5-6 Nevertheless - God was not pleased with most of them, though they had been physically set apart, removed from Egypt together, heard the law together, knew what God's commandment was, yet even seeing the miraculous they still turned to follow other gods and their own lusts. Those two things are so cojoined, what a man desires and his idea of God, which becomes a god. Men will always prefer the god of their choosing, the idol that doesn't talk back to them about the life they want to lead, that prefers the sacrifices and burnt offerings over obedience. They play down the true God, and in the end worship something of their own invention, calling it God. From atheist to Mormons to Satanist, it's all the same. In that Theocracy in the wilderness the repercussions for their actions were often immediate. Many died for breaking covenant, and the apostle points out that they were an example for us. God has not changed; he still hates sin, is still opposed to it, and will still reward it with it's due wages. Going to church on Sunday, singing in the choir, does not dilute the offense of your sin; it only heightens it, as you are supposed to be part of the people of God, the light in this present darkness, and God will not be mocked. The early church had been given a very clear sign and example this in Ananias and Sapphira.

1Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2With his wife’s full knowledge, he kept back some of the proceeds for himself, but brought a portion and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and withhold some of the proceeds from the land?…
…4Did it not belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? How could you conceive such a deed in your heart? You have not lied to men, but to God!” 5 On hearing these words, Ananias fell down and died. And great fear came over all who heard what had happened. 6Then the young men stepped forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him.…
…7About three hours later his wife also came in, unaware of what had happened. 8 “Tell me,” said Peter, “is this the price you and your husband got for the land?” “Yes,” she answered, “that is the price.” 9“How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord?” Peter replied. “Look, the feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.”…
…10At that instant she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11And great fear came over the whole church and all who heard about these events. 12The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people, and with one accord the believers gathered together in Solomon’s Colonnade.… Acts 5: 1-12


Vs. 7-8 Nor let us be idolaters - Just because you don't have a wooden idol in your house doesn't mean you don't have an idol. It is anything you put above God and what He says. For some it is working out, some video games, some food, some success, their wife, their children; fishing could even possibly become an idol for some. Paul also here again, as earlier, addresses the issue of sexual immorality, and how God dealt with it in the old testament. In this particular church recall from earlier that not only was it going on but they still were going about boasting and thinking, "how mature we are." This is one of the first disqualifying things to ministry, and if you are not dealing with that at the thought level then you are not maturing. 

…19I know your deeds—your love, your faith, your service, your perseverance—and your latter deeds are greater than your first. 20But I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads My servants to be sexually immoral and to eat food sacrificed to idols. 21Even though I have given her time to repent of her immorality, she is unwilling.… Revelation 2: 19-21

Vs. 9-11 Upon whom the end of the ages have arrived - The things that happened then will be pertinent for our understanding all the way till the end. 

…15For the LORD your God, who is among you, is a jealous God. Otherwise the anger of the LORD your God will be kindled against you, and He will wipe you off the face of the earth. 16Do not test the LORD your God as you tested Him at Massah. 17You are to diligently keep the commandments of the LORD your God and the testimonies and statutes He has given you.… Deuteronomy 6: 15-17


V. 12 Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he falls - Some of these falls have been felt through the whole forest, and seen by those who live outside, and they laugh because it makes light of the sin against which some preached and the world embraces lovingly. Paul is cautioning the strong again, take a measure of yourself, humble yourself, use Christ as the bar, and know that your boasting proves the opposite of what you say.

…17The highway of the upright leads away from evil; he who guards his way protects his life. 18Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. 19It is better to be lowly in spirit among the humble than to divide the spoil with the proud.… Proverbs 16: 17-19


…19You will say then, “Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in.” 20That is correct: They were broken off because of unbelief, but you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. 21For if God did not spare the natural branches, He will certainly not spare you either.… Romans 11: 19-21


V. 13 Will provide the way of escape - No unusual temptation, they all have their most base element, whether lust of the flesh, pride of life. It comes down to this, do you actually, or when will you actually believe the God Who you say you believe in. 

Wuest A testing time or a temptation has not laid hold of you with the result that these have you in their grip, except those to which mankind is continually subject. But God is faithful who will not permit you to be tested nor tempted above that with which you are able to cope, but will, along with the testing time or temptation, also make a way out in order that you may be able to bear up under it. (Eerdmans Publishing - used by permission)

Zodhiates Absolutely no testing has overtaken you which does not pertain to mankind, but God is trustworthy who absolutely will not permit you to be tested beyond what you are able to endure, but will, together with the testing, provide the way out. - PA

…8If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar, and His word is not in us.… 1 John 1: 8-10

14If you ask Me for anything in My name, I will do it. 15If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. 16And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—… John 14: 14-16

…7You hypocrites! Isaiah prophesied correctly about you: 8‘These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. 9They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.’ ”… Matthew 15: 7-9



























































Sunday, October 11, 2026

#1681 1 Corinthians 9 Part 2 Shadow Boxing

 

                                        J.C. Ryle


15 But I have used none of these things. And I am not writing these things so that it will be done so in my case, for it would be better for me to die than have anyone make my boast an empty one. 16 For if I proclaim the gospel, I have nothing to boast, for I am under compulsion. For woe is me if I do not proclaim the gospel. 17 For if I do this voluntarily, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have a stewardship entrusted to me. 18 What then is my reward? That, when I proclaim the gospel, I may offer the gospel without charge, so as not to make full use of my authority in the gospel.

19 For though I am free from all, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I may win more. 20 And to the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews. To those who are under the Law, as under the Law though not being myself under the Law, so that I might win those who are under the Law. 21 To those who are without law, as without law, though not being without the law of God but under the law of Christ, so that I might win those who are without law. 22 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some. 23 So I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it.

24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. 25 Now everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible. 26 Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; 27 but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9: 15-27 LSB

1 Corinthians 9: 15-27

15. But I have used none of these things - Paul has just gone through a list of qualifications that make him equal to those apostles who are receiving support from the church, but he himself has chosen to set this right aside and remain a tent maker. Let this be understood as well, all the other apostles shared the gospel freely too, and were often repaid by the hearers with beatings and imprisonment. This was never a pay to pray, for we all received the gospel freely and should give the gospel in the same manner. Paul's continuation in labor, in working all night so that he may travel and preach during the day, has put even more weight upon his words for other pastors. It is a support that is first and foremost of a free will, then before handing out money or goods we must evaluate the recipient and what the money is going to. Paul receives gifts at different times when God has laid it upon the hearts of his brothers and sisters, but he is not on the payroll with any consistent salary, which has given him a lot of breadth in this matter. In Exodus those working on the tabernacle were actually men of integrity, who, once realizing they had more then they needed, asked Moses to tell the people to stop bringing in money for the work. Stewardship works both ways.

…5and said to Moses, “The people are bringing more than enough for doing the work the LORD has commanded us to do.” 6After Moses had given an order, they sent a proclamation throughout the camp: “No man or woman should make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” So the people were restrained from bringing more, 7since what they already had was more than enough to perform all the work.… Exodus 36: 5-7


V. 15b - 18 And I am not writing these things so that it will be done so in my case - It's not like false humility that fishes for a compliment regardless of how one's words play themselves down. He actually has more vested here. It allows him to speak more freely on behalf of others, working with his hands removes a stumbling block for those who have been burnt by the snake oil salesmen, and it is the boast of his ministry, not arrogantly, but that I have had the privilege to give in such a manner. It also has kept him from becoming complacent so that when he is sick, in prison, and has received gifts, he can see the hand of God and not coming to rely on a steady income has probably brought him to his knees more frequently. These gifts connected the givers to Paul's suffering, and came from the motivation of love rather than the compulsion of fear or pressure.

MacArthur adds that "He was not using subterfuge, hoping that, despite his protest, they would begin to pay him. He had never taken pay from those he served and he never intended to. Nor was he now asking for that in a disguised way." - PA

…16For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. 17Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. 18I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.… Philippians 4: 16-18

…13In what way were you inferior to the other churches, except that I was not a burden to you? Forgive me this wrong! 14See, I am ready to come to you a third time, and I will not be a burden, because I am not seeking your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. 15And for the sake of your souls, I will most gladly spend my money and myself. If I love you more, will you love me less?… 2 Corinthians 12: 13-15

Vs. 19-20 I have made myself a slave to all, so that I may win more - Paul put the needs of others first, so that even his liberty was to deny himself  his liberties in order to win more. I have a first world problem that I am always so concerned about my rights, but not equally as eager to pray for and forgive those who have infringed upon them. Paul's willingness to set lesser things aside makes it easier to teach concerning all things. If someone feels or believes that they can't eat pork then that is not the greatest thing they lack in their understanding. It is not the end of the world and bacon is not my gospel, so when Paul is with the Jews he lives as they live. When with the gentiles he does the same and protects them from Judaizers who would demand that they be circumcised and come under the ceremonial law. 

1It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be encumbered once more by a yoke of slavery. 2Take notice: I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. 3Again I testify to every man who gets himself circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law.… Galatians 5: 1-3

V. 21 Though not being without the Law of God but under the Law of Christ - The moral law still stands, but we have all failed regarding it, and those who are saved are saved through Christ's keeping of the law and his atoning work on the cross. Paul and Peter interject lines like this to defend against those false teachers who would lead people into antinomianism.

…31I cling to Your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame. 32I run in the path of Your commandments, for You will enlarge my heart. 33Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, and I will keep them to the end.… Psalm 119: 31-33


17Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them. 18For I tell you truly, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19So then, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do likewise will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever practices and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.…
20For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 21You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell.… Matthew 5: 17-22




…15Consider also that our Lord’s patience brings salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom God gave him. 16He writes this way in all his letters, speaking in them about such matters. Some parts of his letters are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. 17Therefore, beloved, since you already know these things, be on your guard so that you will not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure standing.… 2 Peter 3: 15-17

MacArthur on law - To keep from being misunderstood, he makes it clear that he is not talking about ignoring or violating God’s moral law. The Ten Commandments and all of God’s other moral laws have, if anything, been strengthened under the New Covenant. For example, not only is it sin to commit murder but also to be inordinately angry with your brother or to call him a fool. Not only is adultery sinful, but so is lust (Matt. 5:21–30). Love does not abrogate God’s moral law but fulfills it (Rom. 13:8, 10; cf. Matt. 5:17). None of us in Christ is without [outside] the law of God, but rather are under the law of Christ. Every believer is under complete legal obligation to Jesus Christ—even though love, rather than the externalities of the law, is to be the guiding force. (MNTC-1 Cor) - PA

Vs. 22-23 To the weak I became weak - Again laying aside his liberties. When someone is teaching me something that I don't understand yet then I always ask for the kindergarten version. There is nothing wrong with admitting you do not know or don't quite understand something, and it is far worse to pretend that you do understand only to leave and act in error. Paul takes the time to gently clarify and explain from every angle for those who don't understand, but then goes a step further for the weak and gives up his rights and privileges in order to win more people for the gospel. Everything he does is to reach a broader audience, to tell more people, not by way of compromising the gospel, but self sacrifice.

…13I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry 14in the hope that I may provoke my own people to jealousy and save some of them. 15For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?… Romans 11: 13-15

1That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our own eyes, which we have gazed upon and touched with our own hands—this is the Word of life. 2And this is the life that was revealed; we have seen it and testified to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us. 3We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And this fellowship of ours is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ.… 1 John 1: 1-3

Vs. 24-25 They then do it to receive a corruptible crown - Runners at the Olympic games would receive a wreath that would wither, but for this temporary ornament they would discipline themselves, bringing their bodies under submission. I have often marveled at UFC fighters cutting weight during fight camp and especially that last push right before weigh ins. Some of the drops are extreme when you think of someone who normally walks around at 220 pounds trying to make weight to fight at 185. I could stand to lose 60 myself right now, but getting there is difficult and keeping it off isn't easy either. Paul is competing for something much more glorious than a trophy, longer lasting than gold or silver, and is willing to make sacrifices to do so. 

Vs. 26-27 I box in such a way, as not beating the air - It is for a purpose, he buffets his body, he trains in order to engage, not for looks or a game, but he brings his body into subjection to be prepared. A fighter spars so that he can feel what it is like to get hit so that he does not freeze up in the ring. He is training his body to respond differently then it normally would, engaging his mind to push through pain, to not freeze up or curl away from his opponent. Our battle isn't against flesh and blood, but the outside influences that attack our bodies, like hunger, or slanderers, or bullies, should not dictate how we respond, nor do they excuse our responses. God tells us how to live as Christians and so we must be righteous regardless of what people say about us, or whether we are sick or hungry. I have often found myself to be a much lesser man than I thought once trouble has come to me. Paul is testing himself and preparing himself for this in advance. Paul prays for justice, confronts sin and false teachers, but he also lays aside personal comfort and shares the gospel even when it leads to prison or death. 

…11Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand.… Ephesians 6: 11-13

…27To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. 29To this end I also labor, striving with all His energy working powerfully within me.… Colossians 1: 27-29