1 Corinthians 9:15-16 (ESV)
[15] But I have made no use of any of these rights, nor am I writing
these things to secure any such provision. For I would rather die than have
anyone deprive me of my ground for boasting. [16] For if I preach the gospel,
that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me
if I do not preach the gospel!
A central part of following Jesus that we seem to have forgotten
is the idea of sacrifice. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him
deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Mt 16:24). We like the
verses that promise provision, blessing, and joy. The verses that promise
difficulties, or challenge us to sacrifice often get forgotten or ignored.
We are quick to defend our rights. The United States of America
was founded on the idea of “certain unalienable rights” (Declaration of
Independence). Standing up for our rights, demanding our rights, and defending
our rights is considered a virtue. But in the Kingdom of God we are called on
to willingly give up our rights for the benefit of others. That is a hard pill
for us to swallow.
In 1 Corinthians 9 1-14 the Apostle Paul effectively argues
that he has a right to be supported financially in ministry. He should not have
to be “working for a living” (1 Cor 9:6). Yet he willing gave up that right in
order to not hinder the gospel. As believers we have no right to insist that
our pastors and missionaries live like Paul did. But we do have a responsibility
to take Paul’s example personally. That is why he gave it. He was trying to teach
the Corinthian believers that following Christ means willingly giving up one’s
rights for the sake of others. Willing sacrifice on behalf of others is a
central part of following Christ. What would life look like if we actually
practiced that?
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