1 Corinthians 9:19
For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.
Original Language Analysis
Ἐλεύθερος
free
G1658
Ἐλεύθερος
free
Strong's:
G1658
Word #:
1 of 12
unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e., (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or lia
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἐκ
from
G1537
ἐκ
from
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
4 of 12
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
ἐμαυτὸν
myself
G1683
ἐμαυτὸν
myself
Strong's:
G1683
Word #:
7 of 12
of myself so likewise the dative case ?????? <pronunciation strongs="em-ow-to'"/>, and accusative case ??????? <pronunciation strongs="em-ow-ton'"/>
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Galatians 5:13For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.Matthew 18:15Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.1 Corinthians 10:33Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.1 Timothy 4:16Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.2 Timothy 2:10Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.Romans 15:2Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.2 Corinthians 4:5For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.Proverbs 11:30The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.Romans 1:14I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.1 Corinthians 9:1Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?
Historical Context
In Greco-Roman society, freedom (eleutheria) was prized above nearly all virtues. Slaves dreamed of manumission; citizens defended political liberty; philosophers extolled moral autonomy. Paul's voluntary enslavement was countercultural and shocking—like a freed slave choosing to return to bondage. Yet Christ did the same (Phil 2:6-7), and Paul follows His pattern: freedom expressed through sacrificial service.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's self-enslavement to others demonstrate true Christian freedom?
- What is the relationship between liberty (v. 1, 19) and voluntary servanthood (v. 19)?
- How does "gaining the more" shape Paul's missionary strategy and personal choices?
Analysis & Commentary
For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. Paul introduces his missionary strategy of voluntary enslavement. The Greek eleutheros (ἐλεύθερος, "free") echoes verse 1; as an apostle, Paul has liberty from human authority and cultural expectations. Yet he chose to become a doulos (δοῦλος, "slave, servant") to everyone. This is not compulsion but strategic self-limitation.
The phrase "gain the more" (Greek kerdainō, κερδαίνω, "win, gain") is repeated five times (v. 19-22), emphasizing Paul's evangelistic purpose. He surrenders freedom to maximize conversions. This is the practical application of chapter 8's theology: the strong limit liberty for the weak. Paul becomes "all things to all men" (v. 22), adapting culturally without compromising doctrinally. This is missional flexibility—refusing to let secondary issues (food, cultural customs, financial support) obstruct the gospel. Paul models what he commands.