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Paul, Peerless Apostle and Prophet (3 of 15)

Focus Text: 1 Corinthians 9.19-23

“For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.” (1 Corinthians 9.19-23).

The key thought and phrase from the focus text is – “I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” This phrase contains Paul’s own statement of relentless motivation; he did what he did in order to save others! What was so different about this grand apostle? What did he know that others did not know? What secrets did he hold which compelled him to go to such lengths for the sake of the souls of others?

Not that each of these questions will be answered individually, but they are thoughts that come into the minds of Bible students as they read about Paul and his exploits for Jesus Christ. To put it simply, it was not superior knowledge that motivated Paul. It was not a secret formula which he and he alone knew. It was not that he was physically different than other men on any fundamental way. The difference in Paul’s reaction to the gospel and the reaction of other men was entirely a difference that lay in Paul’s character; he was a man who knew the true meaning of love. Though 1 Corinthians 13 (sometimes called the love chapter of the Bible) was certainly inspired by the Holy Spirit, it seems that Paul actually experienced that love. His miraculous deeds were not for show; they were because he loved the souls of men. His devotion to others was not a fair-weather affair; it was deep and abiding concern for their well-being. His disposition toward those who wronged him was not mean-spirited nor did he hold a grudge awaiting a day of personal revenge. The love described in 1 Corinthians 13 was a love which was practiced in the life and work of the peerless apostle Paul!

I submit that if one took every phrase of 1 Corinthians 13.1-8a, numerous examples of “applied love” could be found in the life of the apostle who penned the chapter. To him, the gospel was not just a message; it was a way of life. Not only did he live the gospel, he exhorted all others to do even as he was doing. Especially did Paul encourage young preachers (like his son in the faith, Timothy) to stand strong and fight the good fight of faith. He encouraged his brethren to behave like men and all believers to have tender affection one for another. His love could not be quenched by the fiery darts of persecution or ridicule. Love indeed endured all things where the apostle Paul was concerned!

When love such as Paul possessed characterizes the church of today, results like those of the first century will once again be typical. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6.9).

Questions:

1. What motive drove Paul to work as tirelessly in the ministry as he did?

2. Why did Paul become all things to all men?

3. How did Paul demonstrate the love which he described in 1 Corinthians 13?

4. What motivation will enable us to endure the hardships of being a believer and allow us to reap bountifully in due time?

"Today's Little Lift" from Jim Bullington

Comfort in Isaiah II (12-14-10)