For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I may win more.
To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews;
to those who are under the Law, as under the Law though not being myself under the Law, so that I might win those who are under the Law;
to those who are without law, as without law, though not being without the law of God but under the law of Christ, so that I might win those who are without law.
To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak;
I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some. I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
At first blush it may seem that Paul is a chameleon of sorts, “acting” like the people he is seeking to win to Christ. But that’s not what is going on at all. Again, he is addressing his Christian liberty and demonstrating that he is willing to set aside his rights to affiliate and lead people to Christ. I find that he is so anchored in his theology and relationship with God, it is no big thing to forego his own prerogatives for the sake of others… even to the point of refusing a salary for his services of preaching the gospel. Amazing! And amazingly effective!
Have I placed immovable boundaries in my life that prevent me from reaching out to others? Have I grown in maturity enough to avoid temptation or stumbling as I reach out to some?
God, as this day begins, Oh how I need You. Again, I fall upon Your mercy and grace asking for something of value to share with others today. May I find Jesus operating within me to such a degree I can minister the gospel and love people in His name. Please meet my needs as I try to do the same for others.
