For the Sake of the Gospel

FOR THE SAKE OF THE GOSPEL

1 Corinthians 9:1-27

GOD CALLS ME TO GIVE MY LIFE

FOR THE SAKE OF THE GOSPEL.

Paul proves he has rights as an apostle. (1-14)

Paul abandons his rights. (15-18)

Paul chooses a more difficult, more significant and more rewarding life-style. (19-27)

ARE YOU WILLING TO EMBRACE A DIFFICULT LIFE

FOR THE SAKE OF THE GOSPEL?

ARE YOU WILLING TO CENTER YOUR LIFE AROUND

HELPING OTHERS KNOW JESUS?

ARE YOU LIVING FOR THE TEMPORARY OR THE ETERNAL?

For the Next Lesson: 1 Corinthians 9:1-27

Note: This chapter continues Paul’s instructions about giving up our “rights” for the good of others. (8:1,9)

1.Read verses 1-6. What do you think was happening in Corinth that caused Paul to respond with “this is my defense”? What point is Paul making to the Corinthians with his three questions in verses 4-6? In light of 8:9, why do you think Paul is establishing his position as an apostle of Jesus Christ?

2.Read verses 7-15. In these verses Paul uses six different illustrations to establish his right to receive financial compensation from the church in Corinth. What is Paul’s first illustration or reason that he deserves compensation as an apostle in verse 7? His second in verses 8-9? His third in verses 10-11? His fourth in verse 12? His fifth in verse 13? His sixth in verse 14? As you consider 8:9, why was Paul so thorough in establishing his right to financial compensation?

3.Read verses 16-18. What was Paul’s “boasting” and motivation for refusing his right to compensation as an apostle, church-planter and pastor? What is your opinion about Paul’s attitude? What do you think was going on in the Corinthian culture that would cause them to stumble spiritually if Paul received financial compensation from them?

4.Read verses 19-23. How would you describe Paul’s heart? What was Paul’s ultimate goal in life (see verses 22-23)? Do you have the same heart as Paul? Do you share the same goal? What does your lifestyle (the way you spend your time, money and energy) reflect about your heart and goals for life?

5.Read verses 24-27. What does being a committed athlete teach us about how to live our Christian lives according to these verses? Does your life reflect the same discipline, drive and focus of an elite athlete? Should it? Why or why not? Based on your study of this entire passage (9:1-27), what should you be driven and disciplined to do? Are you doing it? How can you grow in this area?