1 Corinthians 9:12

Others. This doubtless refers to other religious teachers in the church at Corinth. Perhaps Paul was thinking of some of those mentioned in chs. 1:10, 11; 3:3, the leaders of the various divisions in the church who possibly claimed the right to be supported by the church. They may have been the very ones who sought to prove that Paul was not an apostle because he did not, like them, exercise the authority to receive support from the church. But he showed that if others had the right to such support, his claim was much stronger. He was their original instructor; he had led them to the Lord and helped them to organize their church. He had labored longer and more arduously in teaching them and guiding them in spiritual things.

Power. Gr. exousia, “right,” “authority,” “privilege.”

Not used. In spite of the fact that Paul had a greater right to claim material support from the church, he had not pressed his right; he had chosen to forgo his privilege in this matter, and to work for his own support. He was very careful lest he should give any cause for offense; lest he should make it possible for someone to accuse him of having mercenary motives in going to Corinth and preaching the gospel (see Acts 18:3; 2 Cor. 11:7-9; 12:14). This is an illustration of Paul’s complete dedication to his lifework of saving souls for the kingdom of God (see 1 Cor. 9:22). His first and only consideration at all times was what should be done for the best interests of the people to whom he ministered.

Suffer. Paul’s determination to support himself led him to endure all kinds of hardships. He was willing to endure these if thereby the kingdom of God might be advanced.

Hinder. Paul was anxious that nothing he might do should in any way cause hindrance to the advancement of the work of preaching the gospel. It was not because he had any doubt concerning his right to full support, but because he believed that by denying himself this right he could do good for the cause of Christ and avoid certain evil consequences that might have come about if he had insisted on his just dues.