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1 Corinthians 9:15-18

King James Version (KJV)

“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody

Scripture focus

15. But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for [it were] better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. 16. For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! 17. For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation [of the gospel] is committed unto me. 18. What is my reward then? [Verily] that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.

1 Corinthians 9:15-18 — KJV

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:15

Theological / Devotional

Used none. See on v. 12.

So done. Doubtless the Corinthians would have been willing to support Paul had he so desired. Paul is making sure that his present defense of his rights will not be misunderstood.

Better. The statement seems to be exaggerated, until we realize that Paul is not seeking personal glory, but the glory of God, as the succeeding verses show. The passage gives us another glimpse into Paul’s wonderful consecration to the Lord and His cause, and emphasizes his complete negation of self in the interest of Him who had redeemed him. Man can do whatever he perceives to be the will of God, but if he does it unwillingly, with a resisting heart, he will not know the glorying that was Paul’s. But he who cheerfully does more than is required, as did Paul in relation to the question of support, obtains a special reward.

By SdaBc