1 Corinthians 9:23

Paul's course in its chameleon-like changes is governed by a simple practical aim: “But all things I do for the gospel's sake”. His one purpose is to fulfil his Gospel stewardship (1 Corinthians 9:17; 1 Corinthians 4:1 ff., etc., Acts 20:24); Philippians 3:7-14 presents the inner side of the “one thing” he pursues. The intensity with which this end is sought accounts for the variety of means; the most resolute, in a complicated situation, becomes the most versatile of men. διὰ τὸ εὐαγγέλιον, “on the gospel's account”, with a view to spread the good news most widely and carry it into effect most completely: for διὰ of the end as a ground of action, cf. 1 Corinthians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 8:11; Romans 4:25. For himself Paul's sole ambition is “that I may be joint-partaker in it (with those I save)” that he may win its salvation along with many others, the fruit of his ministry (cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:19 f.; also John 14:3; John 17:24).