1 Corinthians 9:23
And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.
Original Language Analysis
ποιῶ
I do
G4160
ποιῶ
I do
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
3 of 10
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
διὰ
for
G1223
διὰ
for
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
4 of 10
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
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.Mark 8:35For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.Hebrews 3:14For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;1 John 1:3That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.Galatians 2:5To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
Historical Context
Greek synkoinōnos denoted business partners or co-heirs sharing an inheritance. Paul uses it to emphasize gospel unity: apostles and laypeople equally share Christ's riches (Eph 3:6). This countered hierarchical Greco-Roman patronage, where benefactors lorded over clients. Paul is not the Corinthians' patron; he is their brother, equally dependent on grace.
Questions for Reflection
- How does "for the gospel's sake" function as a decision-making grid for ministry priorities?
- What does it mean for ministers to be "partakers" of the gospel with their congregations?
- How does this humble posture (co-participant, not superior dispenser) protect against ministerial pride?
Analysis & Commentary
And this I do for the gospel's sake, Paul summarizes his motivation: everything is subordinated to gospel advance. Financial sacrifice (v. 12-18), cultural adaptation (v. 19-22), and personal hardship (v. 27) all serve one master: the gospel. The Greek euangelion (εὐαγγέλιον, "good news") is Paul's polestar—every decision is evaluated by whether it helps or hinders gospel proclamation.
That I might be partaker thereof with you. Paul does not view himself as superior dispenser of the gospel to inferior recipients. He is a fellow-partaker (Greek synkoinōnos, συγκοινωνός, "co-sharer, joint-participant") with the Corinthians. Both apostle and converts share in the gospel's blessings—forgiveness, adoption, resurrection hope. This humble posture prevents ministerial pride: Paul serves the gospel; he does not own it. He shares its benefits with all believers, from the newest convert to the oldest saint.