23 I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. I Corinthians 9:23
Last Friday I wrote the following in my personal journal: “God I must ask, what is the most important thing I can do today in your Kingdom?” The Lord’s response was right in front of me. God said, live your life for the sake of the gospel. As I considered this truth, I realized I would have to give up other things I had planned so that I could live for the sake of something far more important.
Today’s Scripture readings help us to grasp this truth. I Corinthians 9 begins with Paul’s defense of his ministry. Paul was being accused of profiting from the ministry. In Paul’s summary defense, he proves that he was within his rights to receive a salary for the work he was doing. However, Paul surrendered his rights to do so because of something more important. Paul knew he would hinder the gospel by receiving what was fully his right to do so. He understood that by listening to these people, he was winning the right to win these people to Jesus.
Question: do you and I always know what the greater purpose is in what we face each day?
I must confess there are days when I chose the lower purpose and sacrifice the greater purpose. We see in our Scripture text for today that Paul firmly understood and applied the truth of the greater purpose:
- Paul’s goal was to preach the gospel, 9:16.
- Paul’s fruit was in the souls that he reached, 9:22-23.
- Paul’s impact resulted in God being glorified, 10:31.
Here is a good rule of thumb. If your goal is preaching the gospel that results in the fruit of salvation which gives glory to God, then you are living your life for the sake of something greater.
2 questions:
- What are you willing to give up so that the greater purpose is served?
- How can you help others to grasp this truth?