In chapter nine, Paul turns to using himself and Barnabas as examples of laying down freedoms and rights for the sake of others, and for the sake of the gospel message. It's interesting to note that the Greek word translated "right" in verses 4 and 5 is the same word rendered "freedom" in chapter 8 verse 9. An outline of the chapter could look like this:
v. 1-6 Paul's rights as an apostle. Notice the rhetorical questions at the top: Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? When we get to the letter of 2 Corinthians we'll find Paul using a significant amount of space to defend his apostleship against criticisms leveled against him. This section might give us a preview--some of that criticism may be starting to form already. An aside note: you can have some fun with verse 5 over a cup of coffee with a devout Catholic friend. Enough said.
v. 7-14 Illustrations from the military, industry, agriculture, the Old Testament law and the teachings of Christ are all employed to clarify--Paul has a right (or a freedom) to be sustained by the church as he ministers. If others have this right of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more?
v. 15-23 A big but starts this section (echoing the big but found earlier in verse 12) demonstrating that while Paul has these rights, he has chosen to set them aside for the sake of the people he ministers to and for the sake of the gospel. Here's that illustration. Paul says essentially, 'Look at the choices I've made" to be clear. But we did not use this right. On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel.
v. 24-27 The section closes with an analogy from the world of athletics--run (live) with purpose. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. Discipline yourself for the sake of this calling on your life.
Comments