1 Corinthians 9:19, I Might Gain the More

1 Corinthians 9:19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

The Apostle Paul sought to win souls for Christ by declining to accept any compensation so that he would not give offence to anyone or an excuse to reject the gospel, which he was determined to preach without charge. His principle of life was that he should not obligate himself to anyone by accepting favours from anyone. He lived in such a way among the Corinthians that all were obligated to him because of his free services in preaching the gospel. He adopted this philosophy of life for the single purpose of winning as many to Christ as possible. [Zodhiates]

Thank God for such willing dedication of sacrificial service for the advancement of God’s kingdom. Indeed, let God’s servant be willing to be all things to all men to save some. He was willing to suffer even personal inconvenience in order to be able to reach out to those God would bring his way.

1 Corinthians 9:22 To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 

When our Lord Jesus met the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, He asked water from her. The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.  In fact, historically, they were bitter enemies. The Jew would not stoop low to ask a drink from the Samaritan even though he may be thirsty. Jesus reached out to the unlovable and outcast Samaritan proactively. He did not despise her but saw this “outcast” as a precious soul needing the gospel. So must we if we care for lost souls. Putting aside our prejudices, we humble ourselves in the sincerity of heart to reach out to them. Therefore, laying aside cultural and social prejudices He secured the attention of the Samaritan woman to share with her the truth concerning her need for salvation and everlasting life.

May the Lord help us to learn from the good example of the Apostle Paul and our Master Jesus. Amen.