It seems as if some at Corinth were questioning Paul’s apostleship. Probably those who were saying this were false teachers. It was through the Apostle Paul that they were led to the Lord Jesus. As an apostle, he had certain rights and privileges, but he did not make use of them. Under Old Testament law, the oxen that treaded out the corn were not to be muzzled. They were to eat while working. A hired soldier was paid for his services, and a farmer would eat of the vineyard that he planted. Now, the Apostle had sown to the spiritual needs of the Corinthians and he was entitled to reap their carnal (material) things. However, he did not use this right lest he should hinder the gospel of Christ. What a gracious spirit he had! May we be imitators of this dear servant of God. In fact, he was willing to make himself a servant to all so that he could gain the most possible for Christ.
Often, what a person does has more influence upon us than what he says. The Apostle Paul was very aware of this and was careful to keep his body in subjection at all times, lest when he had preached to others, the message would be rejected because of bad behavior. Preaching alone will not do — the truth must be lived.
1. Paul was doubtless an apostle to the Corinthians, because they were the __________ of his apostleship. 1 Corinthians 9:___
2. If a person plants a vineyard, he is entitled to eat __________; if he feeds a flock, he should be able to drink __________. 1 Corinthians 9:___
3. The apostles had sown spiritual things to the Corinthians. What at the least should they reap? __________ 1 Corinthians 9:___
4. Why did the Apostle Paul say he made himself a servant to all men? __________ 1 Corinthians 9:___
5. My body must be kept under control (subjection) at all times; otherwise, when preaching to others, what might happen? __________ 1 Corinthians 9:___