December 1

1 Corinthians 9-11 (biblegateway.com)

Living for God’s Glory

After addressing matters related to personal holiness, relationships, and the proper use of Christian liberty, Paul turns to a concrete example from his own ministry. Some in Corinth have questioned his apostleship and misunderstood the nature of freedom in Christ. Paul responds by demonstrating that Christian liberty is not a license to pursue personal advantage, but an opportunity to serve others. He shows that love is often expressed not by insisting on one’s rights, but by voluntarily setting them aside so that nothing hinders the gospel. This principle shapes his teaching in chapters 9–11, where Paul illustrates that rights must be guided by responsibility, that liberty must be governed by love, and that worship must remain centered on God rather than self.

1 Corinthians 9 — Paul’s Rights, His Restraint for the Gospel, and His Call to Disciplined Faithfulness

As the letter continues, Paul returns to the question of Christian liberty and how it should be used. Some in Corinth are using their freedom in ways that harm others. Paul responds by holding up his own ministry as an example of how a servant of Christ thinks about rights, sacrifice, and the advance of the gospel.

Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians of his identity and calling. He asks, “Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?” (v. 1). His authority does not come from the church but from his encounter with the risen Christ. He points to the Corinthians themselves as the seal of his apostleship in the Lord (v. 2). Their conversion and the existence of their church confirm that God has worked through his preaching. Paul does not raise this to boast, but to show that what he says about rights and ministry flows from a real, God-given calling.

He then addresses those who are examining him (v. 3). Some in Corinth questioned whether Paul possessed the same authority as the other apostles because he was not among the original Twelve and did not walk with Jesus during His earthly ministry. Paul reminds them that apostleship is not determined by human standards but by the Lord who calls. His encounter with the risen Christ and the fruit of his ministry validate his apostleship in a way no human committee could confer or deny. The Corinthians themselves are evidence that God has entrusted him with this work.

Paul then asks whether he and Barnabas do not have the same rights as the other apostles. They have the right to eat and drink, meaning to receive support for their basic needs from those they serve (v. 4). They have the right, if married, to take along a believing wife, just as the Lord’s brothers and Peter do (v. 5). He also asks whether he and Barnabas are the only ones who would have no right to refrain from working for a living (v. 6). These questions affirm that their apostleship is genuine and that their rights are real. They do not hold a lesser office or a diminished calling. They share the same God-given rights as other recognized leaders in the church.

To show that these rights are reasonable, Paul uses everyday examples. A soldier does not serve at his own expense. A man who plants a vineyard eats some of its fruit. A shepherd who tends a flock drinks some of the milk (v. 7). These images all communicate one principle: those who labor normally share in the benefits of their work. In the same way, those who labor in spiritual things have a rightful claim to material support. At this point, Paul is simply establishing that such rights truly exist.

Paul then appeals to Scripture to show that this principle reflects God’s own concern. The Law says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain” (v. 8–9). God’s command protects even an animal’s share in its work. Paul explains that this is written not only for the ox but also for people. The one who plows and the one who threshes should do so in hope of sharing in the crop (v. 10). By the same reasoning, if he and his fellow workers have sown spiritual things among the Corinthians, it is not a great thing if they reap material things from them (v. 11). Others claim this rightful share, and Paul acknowledges that their claim is valid (v. 12a). The principle is biblical and just.

Only after proving the legitimacy of these rights does Paul reveal his own decision. He states that he has not exercised this right because he does not want to put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ (v. 12b). His refusal is not because the right is questionable, but because he wants nothing to cloud the message or fuel suspicion. Paul’s calling is to preach Christ, and he is willing to forgo what is his in order to keep that calling clear.

Paul continues by reminding the Corinthians that those who serve in the temple receive their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in what is offered (v. 13). In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel (v. 14). This shows that ministerial support is part of God’s design. Yet Paul again emphasizes that he has not used any of these rights (v. 15). He would rather die than see his reason for boasting emptied of its meaning. His joy is not found in gaining personal benefit, but in proclaiming the gospel without charge, so that nothing obscures the message of Christ. His satisfaction comes from holding out Christ with clarity, unhindered by any expectation of reward.

Paul explains that preaching the gospel is not optional for him. A necessity is laid upon him, and he says that woe would be upon him if he did not preach the gospel (v. 16). If he did this of his own choice, he might claim a certain reward, but since he does it as a stewardship entrusted to him, his reward is different (v. 17). His reward is the opportunity to offer the gospel free of charge, not making full use of his rights in the gospel (v. 18). His life shows that Christian liberty can be used in a way that draws attention not to the servant, but to the Savior.

Paul then explains how this principle shapes his relationships with different groups. Though he is free from all, he makes himself a servant to all so that he might win more of them (v. 19). To the Jews, he becomes as a Jew, living in a way that does not create unnecessary barriers. To those under the law, he lives in ways that will help them hear the message, though he himself is under the law of Christ (v. 20). To those without the law, he becomes as one without it, while still obeying God (v. 21). To the weak, he becomes as weak, identifying with their limitations so that he might win the weak (v. 22). He is willing to adjust his approach as far as faithfulness allows, so that by all possible means he might save some. He does all this for the sake of the gospel, so that he may share in its blessings (v. 23). His flexibility is not compromise; it is love guided by truth.

Paul closes the chapter with an illustration from athletics that would be familiar to the Corinthians. In a race, all the runners run, but only one receives the prize. Believers, then, should run in such a way that they may obtain the prize (v. 24). Athletes exercise self-control in all things to win a perishable wreath, but Christians pursue an imperishable one (v. 25). Paul does not run aimlessly or box as one beating the air. Instead, he disciplines his body and brings it under control (v. 26–27). He does this so that, after preaching to others, he himself will not be disqualified. The grace that saved him leads him to live with seriousness, focus, and self-control.

1 Corinthians 9 shows that Christian maturity is not measured by what a person can claim, but by what he is willing to surrender for the sake of Christ. Paul has real rights as an apostle, affirmed by Scripture and by the Lord’s own command, yet he chooses not to use them when they might hinder the gospel. His example teaches believers to hold their freedoms with open hands, to adapt in love, and to run the race of faith with discipline and purpose, so that Christ is honored in all things.

1 Corinthians 10 — Warnings from Israel’s History, A Call to Faithful Living, and the Glory of God in Everyday Choices

As Paul continues teaching about Christian liberty, he points the Corinthians to the example of Israel. Although Israel experienced remarkable spiritual blessings, many still fell into sin because they took God’s grace lightly. Paul warns that privileges do not guarantee spiritual safety. Freedom in Christ must be joined with obedience, watchfulness, and a humble reliance on God, or it can quickly lead to presumption and failure.

Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians that all Israel was under the cloud, passed through the sea, and was identified with Moses in the exodus (v. 1–2). They experienced God’s presence and protection, just as the Corinthians experienced the blessings of Christ. Israel ate spiritual food and drank spiritual drink, and the rock from which they drank symbolized Christ Himself (v. 3–4). Their story shows that spiritual privileges alone do not guarantee faithfulness. Although they were greatly blessed, “God was not pleased with most of them,” and they were overthrown in the wilderness (v. 5). The Corinthians must recognize that grace is not a shield against the consequences of disobedience.

Paul explains that these events occurred as examples so believers would not desire evil as Israel did (v. 6). He warns against idolatry by referencing the golden calf incident, when Israel sat down to eat and drink and rose up to indulge in sinful behavior (v. 7). Corinth, surrounded by pagan temples and feasts, faces similar temptations. Paul urges them not to commit sexual immorality, remembering how twenty-three thousand Israelites fell under judgment in a single day (v. 8). Sin is never an isolated act; it invites discipline and hinders fellowship with God.

Paul continues by warning them not to test Christ, as some Israelites did and were destroyed by serpents (v. 9). Complaining and resisting God’s ways brought destruction on Israel, and Paul urges the Corinthians not to follow their pattern (v. 10). These judgments were recorded for the instruction of believers living in this present age (v. 11). Privilege must be matched by humility. Paul cautions, “Let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall” (v. 12). Confidence in God is good, but presumption is dangerous.

Paul then offers a word of encouragement. Temptation is real, but it is not irresistible. God is faithful and will not allow believers to be tempted beyond what they are able to bear. He always provides a way of escape so they may endure it (v. 13). This promise strengthens believers to resist sin without excusing themselves or blaming circumstances. God enables obedience, and believers must choose to walk in it.

With this foundation in place, Paul commands the Corinthians to flee idolatry (v. 14). He calls them to judge his words wisely, appealing to their maturity. When Christians partake of the cup and the bread, they participate in the body and blood of Christ (v. 15–16). The Lord’s Supper unites believers with Christ and with one another. Just as Israel’s sacrifices marked participation with the altar, believers cannot unite with Christ and simultaneously engage in pagan worship (v. 18-21). To do so would provoke the Lord to jealousy, something no one can withstand (v. 22). Fellowship with Christ must be exclusive.

Paul then addresses practical questions about food offered to idols. Some foods in the marketplace may have been used in idol worship, but since the earth belongs to the Lord, believers may eat without fear (v. 25–26). However, if someone points out that food has been sacrificed to idols, believers should refrain for the sake of the other person’s conscience (v. 28–29). Christian liberty must be guided by love. The issue is not whether one can eat, but whether one’s choice builds up or causes confusion. Freedom that ignores the spiritual well-being of others is not Christian freedom at all.

Paul concludes with a principle that governs every decision: “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (v. 31). Believers should avoid giving offense to Jews, Greeks, or the church of God (v. 32). Paul himself seeks not his own advantage but the good of many, so that they may be saved (v. 33). His life reflects a pattern of surrender, service, and intentional witness. The gospel shapes not only belief but behavior.

1 Corinthians 10 teaches that Christian liberty must be exercised with caution, humility, and love. Privilege does not eliminate danger, and freedom does not remove responsibility. God provides strength to resist temptation and wisdom to make choices that honor Christ and protect others. Believers are called to live in such a way that every action, large or small, reflects devotion to the Lord and contributes to the spiritual good of others.

1 Corinthians 11 — Honor in Worship, Order in the Church, and Reverence at the Lord’s Table

As Paul continues to address matters of conduct in the Corinthian church, he turns to issues of worship. Christian liberty must always be guided by God’s design, and public gatherings should reflect honor toward the Lord, not confusion or self-centeredness.

Paul begins by urging the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitates Christ (v. 1). His example provides a model of humility, order, and devotion. He praises them for remembering his instructions, yet he must still correct misunderstandings that threaten the integrity of their worship (v. 2). Having established this connection, he now clarifies how the church must honor God’s design in its public gatherings.

He explains that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God (v. 3). Paul presents an order rooted in God’s design, not in cultural preference or human dominance. The relationship within the Godhead provides the pattern: Christ is under the Father’s headship yet remains fully equal in deity and glory. In the same way, Paul distinguishes roles without implying inferiority. Headship describes function rather than worth and reflects God’s intention for harmony among His people.

Paul applies this order to corporate worship. A man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head because it reverses the symbolism of authority and obscures God’s design (v. 4). The issue is not clothing itself but what certain actions represented within that culture. In Corinth, a covered head for men was associated with pagan worship practices and conveyed the wrong message in Christian worship. Paul insists that men approach God without adopting symbols that confuse the authority Christ has given them. Worship expresses theological truth, and public actions must align with God’s order.

Paul then addresses the conduct of women in worship. He states that every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, as though her hair were cut very short, a sign associated with shame in Corinthian society (v. 5–6). In that cultural setting, the covering represented dignity, fidelity, and devotion, not inferiority. For a woman to discard the covering was not an act of freedom but a visible rejection of the established order God designed. Her action disrupted worship, not because she spoke, but because she did so in a way that overturned the honor symbolized by her role.

This observation reveals something essential: women were praying and prophesying in the public gathering. Their participation is assumed, visible, and Spirit-empowered. Paul does not question whether they minister but how they do so. His concern is not the presence of their voices but the posture of their hearts and the visible expression of honor within God’s established order. Women are not treated as spectators but as contributors whose gifts strengthen the church. Paul thus upholds their participation while clarifying that this participation must reflect the God-given distinctions that bring order and reverence to worship.

This dimension of participation aligns with other biblical examples. Miriam leads Israel in worship after the Exodus (Exod. 15:20–21). Deborah serves as a judge and prophetess, offering wisdom and leadership under God’s direction (Judg. 4–5). Huldah is consulted for authoritative prophetic insight (2 Kings 22:14–20). Anna prophesies in the temple as Christ is revealed (Luke 2:36-38). Priscilla helps instruct Apollos more accurately in the way of God (Acts 18:26). And Philip’s four daughters prophesy in the early church (Acts 21:9). These accounts do not erase distinctions in roles, but they testify that women have always played significant, public, Spirit-enabled roles in God’s redemptive work. Paul’s words here continue, not contradict, this pattern.

Paul’s concern in this passage, then, is not who may speak, but how those who speak do so in a way that reflects God’s character and design. The text regulates demeanor, not gifting; posture, not permission; appearance, not ability. The question of authoritative preaching and oversight will arise later in Scripture and must be interpreted in light of the order and honor Paul establishes here. Nothing in this chapter forbids women from praying, exhorting, testifying, or prophesying in the gathered church. Rather, it clarifies that such a ministry must honor God’s created distinctions.

Paul roots this instruction in creation. Woman came from man and was made as a suitable helper for him (v. 8–9). This origin indicates purpose rather than superiority. Distinct roles do not diminish equality. Paul later reinforces that men and women are mutually dependent. Although woman came from man, every man since has come from woman, and all things are from God (v. 11–12). God designed men and women in a complementary way, functioning together in harmony for His glory. Their roles differ, but their dignity, worth, and accountability before God remain equal.

Paul also considers the presence of angels, who observe the worship of God’s people (v. 10). Because heavenly beings witness the church’s conduct, believers must avoid casual behavior that disregards God’s design. Worship unfolds not merely before other people, but before unseen witnesses who delight in obedience and reverence.

Paul appeals further to propriety and to what nature itself teaches (v. 13–15). In Corinth, long hair was regarded as a woman's glory and served as a natural covering, while short hair conveyed shame. Paul draws on what their culture already understands to reinforce a broader principle: external expressions should not undermine God-given distinctions between men and women. He is not legislating hairstyles or headgear for all nations and eras, but urging believers to avoid actions that confuse identity or reject God's purposes in creation.

Paul concludes by appealing to the consistent practice of the churches of God (v. 16). He is not introducing a local preference but reaffirming a pattern recognized throughout the congregations. Worship is not the place for asserting independence, challenging created distinctions, or redefining identity, but the place where reverence, unity, submission, and obedience to God’s revealed order are displayed.

Having addressed order in worship, Paul turns to a more serious concern: the conduct of the Corinthians at the Lord’s Supper. He cannot commend them in this matter. Their gatherings are marked not by unity but by division (v. 17–18). Some arrive early and feast, while others are left hungry. This behavior humiliates those who have little and reveals that the Corinthians have misunderstood the very meal intended to proclaim their fellowship in Christ (v. 21–22). The Lord’s Table is not a place for self-indulgence. It is a proclamation of the Savior who gave Himself for all.

Paul recounts what he received from the Lord. On the night He was betrayed, Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me” (v. 23–24). In the same way, He took the cup and said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood” (v. 25). The Supper announces Christ’s death until He comes again (v. 26). It is both remembrance and proclamation. The Corinthians, however, were turning a sacred ordinance into a selfish meal and losing sight of the sacrifice it represents.

Paul warns that whoever partakes in an unworthy manner is guilty of dishonoring the body and blood of the Lord (v. 27). Believers must examine themselves before participating. The table demands reverence, discernment, and confession of sin. Those who eat and drink without recognizing the significance of Christ’s body bring judgment upon themselves (v. 28–29). Some among the Corinthians were experiencing weakness and death as a result of treating the Supper lightly (v. 30). God disciplines His people so that they will not be condemned with the world (v. 31–32). The seriousness of the Lord’s Table reflects the seriousness of Christ’s sacrifice.

Paul closes with practical instructions. When believers gather to eat, they should wait for one another so that all may partake together (v. 33). If someone is hungry, he should eat at home to avoid turning the gathering into a competition of abundance (v. 34). The table belongs to Christ, and those who sit at it must do so in a manner worthy of His name.

1 Corinthians 11 teaches that worship is not a matter of personal preference but of honoring the Lord’s design. God calls men and women to embrace their roles with humility and reverence. The Lord’s Supper is a sacred reminder of Christ’s death and the unity of His people. Christian liberty must be exercised with care so that every aspect of worship reflects obedience to God, respect for others, and devotion to Christ.

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 9–11 calls believers to live disciplined, self-controlled lives devoted to the glory of God. The Christian life is not about asserting personal rights but surrendering them for the sake of others and for the advance of the gospel. Worship, too, must be approached with reverence, unity, and a heart centered on Christ’s sacrifice.

For believers today, these chapters remind us that faith is not lived in isolation but in community. Every action, public or private, should reflect love and bring honor to God. We are to run with perseverance, flee temptation, and approach worship with awe. In all things, we must echo Paul’s heart: “Not to us, O Lord, but to Your name be the glory.”