The Set-Up
As mentioned in yesterday’s devotional, the Corinthian believers didn’t accept Paul’s authority as an apostle. In this section, Paul argues his rights as an apostle.
Paul did things a little differently than the other apostles, which may have been why the Corinthians didn’t respect his authority. Many of the other apostles were married and were financially supported by other believers. Paul wasn’t married, and he chose to work for financial support rather than accept donations from the churches he worked with.
While Paul had the right to be supported financially by other believers, he didn’t take advantage of it. This is where we see Paul’s true heart and intentions – it didn’t matter to him if he got paid or not for his work in sharing the gospel; what mattered was that the gospel was being preached.
Why didn’t Paul accept financial contributions? We don’t know the exact reason, but it may have been because he didn’t want others to think that he was using the gospel as a way to make a profit. But regardless of the reason, Paul’s example shows us that there are things we might have to give up in order to share the gospel effectively.
Passage to Read
Reflection Questions
Why do you think accepting financial support could inhibit Paul’s ability to share the gospel?
Paul gave up his apolostic rights of financial support in order to better share the gospel. What are “rights” you may have to give up in order for you to better share the gospel?
In verse 12, Paul writes, “We would rather put up with anything than be an obstacle to the Good News about Christ.” How might someone be an obstacle to the gospel? How can you keep from being an obstacle to the gospel of Jesus Christ?
In verse 14, Paul writes, “In the same way, the Lord ordered that those who preach the Good News should be supported by those who benefit from it.” What are your thoughts on those who preach the gospel getting paid? Should we financially support those who preach the gospel? Does this affect your thoughts about giving to the church?
Prayer Idea
Thank God that He provides for all our needs and that He blesses us when we sacrifice our will to live by His. Ask Him to give you the willingness to let go of any “rights” that might be an obstacle to sharing the gospel. Ask Him to give you a desire to share the gospel with those you interact with, even if it’s uncomfortable.