1 Corinthians 9:20

As a Jew. Here and in vs. 21, 22 Paul states in more detail the behavior that he referred to in v. 19. He had conducted himself in this way among all classes of people. He had done considerable preaching to the Jews, and his approach to them was from the point of view of one of themselves (see Acts 13:14, 17-35; 17:1-3; 28:17-20). Not only did Paul adapt his preaching to the Jews, he also appeared to conform to their customs when no matter of principle was involved (see Acts 16:3; 18:18; 21:21-26; 23:1-6). He was well versed in the ways of the Jews, being himself a former Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin (see Acts 23:6; 26:5; Phil. 3:5; AA 102). This knowledge of Judaism was put to good use by Paul, both in his evangelizing efforts among his countrymen and in his own defense (see Acts 23:6-9). He complied with their practices and prejudices as far as he could with a good conscience. He did not needlessly offend them, but endeavored to use his familiarity with their beliefs and customs in a way that made it easier for him to present the gospel to them. His whole purpose in conforming to their philosophy of life as much as possible was to lead them to the Saviour.

As under the law. Commentators vary in their understanding of this expression. Some say that the first group named by Paul in this verse are the Jews as a nation; and those “under the law” are the Jews considered in relation to their religion. Others contend that “Jews” means those who are such by origin, that is, according to the flesh, and those “under the law” are Gentile proselytes to Judaism. Still others think that those “under the law” refers to the strict Jews, or Pharisees. Another explanation is that the two groups are identical, that Paul is using the literary device of parallelism for emphasis, and in preparation for the corresponding expression “them that are without law” (v. 21). Still another commentator suggests that it might refer to those who believed that salvation is earned by law keeping, such as those converts to Christianity from Judaism who felt that they were still obliged to comply with all the ritualistic observances of the Mosaic law in order to receive the approval of God (see Acts 15:1; 21:20-26). For the meaning of the expression “under the law” see on Rom. 6:14.

Paul did not unnecessarily violate the laws of the Jews. He did not chide them for respecting the law of Moses, nor did he refuse to conform to that law when he could do so without compromising principle. He was so careful about this that he could state, when charged by the Jewish leaders, that he had kept the laws and customs of the Jews (see Acts 25:8; 28:17).

Gain them. Paul did not believe that conformity with ceremonial laws and ritual observances was necessary for Christians, but he was anxious to do everything possible to create a favorable impression and so be in a better position to convince those “under the law” of the truth of the gospel (see Acts 15:24-29), and thus “gain” them.