1 Corinthians 9:1-27

Contents: Paul vindicates his apostleship. The method and reward of true ministry and the support of the ministry.

Characters: God, Jesus, Cephas, Barnabas, Moses.

Conclusion: It is no new thing for ministers of Christ to meet with the worst treatment where they might expect the best. Those who enjoy benefits by the ministry of the Word should not grudge the maintenance of those who are employed in this work. It is to the praise of a minister, nevertheless, to prefer the success of his ministry and the salvation of souls, to his own interest and to deny himself that he may serve Christ.

Key Word: Ministry, 1 Corinthians 9:2.

Strong Verses: 1 Corinthians 9:14; 1 Corinthians 9:19; 1 Corinthians 9:22; 1 Corinthians 9:24.

Striking Facts: 1 Corinthians 9:27. The word «castaway» is literally «disapproved,» and so translated in other places. He is not expressing fear that he may fail of salvation but is speaking of service, and the possibility through unfaithfulness, of being laid on the shelf.