1 Corinthians 9:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 9:12
12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 9 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, righteousness, redemption. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 9:12
12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
Analysis
If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Paul concedes that other teachers in Corinth received support; his own claim is even stronger given that he founded the church. Yet he immediately pivots: Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. The Greek egkopē (ἐγκοπή, "hindrance, obstacle") was a military term for roadblocks impeding troop movement.
Here is the chapter's climax: Paul refuses his rights to avoid placing any barrier before the gospel. In a culture suspicious of greedy philosophers and charlatan preachers, Paul's self-support disarmed skeptics and demonstrated genuine love. The word "suffer" (stegō, στέγω) means to endure, bear up under hardship. Paul chooses poverty and labor over comfort and rights—modeling the very self-limitation he urged in chapter 8. Just as the "strong" should surrender idol-meat freedom for the "weak," Paul surrenders financial support for unbelievers' salvation.
Historical Context
Corinth was rife with sophists who charged exorbitant fees and itinerant preachers who exploited followers. Cynics begged; magicians sold spells; mystery religions demanded initiation payments. In this environment, Paul's refusal of payment was radical and disarming. It removed accusations of greed and demonstrated that his motive was love, not money. This apologetic strategy was especially important in a commercial city obsessed with wealth and status.
Reflection
- What "hindrances" might financial support have created for Paul's gospel ministry in Corinth?
- How does Paul model surrendering legitimate rights for the gospel's advance?
- When might accepting support hinder ministry, and when might refusing it dishonor the church (2 Cor 11:7-9)?
Word Studies
- Gospel: εὐαγγέλιον (Euangelion) G2098 - Good news, gospel
Cross-References
- References Christ: 1 Corinthians 9:18
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 6:7, 9:2, 9:15, Nehemiah 4:8, Acts 18:3, Romans 15:22