This section of 1 Corinthians contains Paul’s famous statement: “I have become all things to all people in order that by all means I may save some.” In this sermon we explore the details of Paul’s purpose of bringing the truth of the gospel to all while laying aside the motives of the world which undermine the gospel. The world favors the strong and the influential.

Paul embraces weakness in order to “gain the weak.” This section uses repeated terms to reveal key themes and purposes of Paul’s actions and attitudes in his gospel ministry. Ironically, Paul became a slave to “all” in order to be free.

This means that he worked to support himself in order to stay free from patronage and influence buying which was common in Roman society. He was free to preach the gospel without being compromised. As Christ’s “slave” Paul was “free from all people.”

We also explain difficult issues in ministry when preaching to Jews who were committed to the law and to Romans who had other values. The moral obligations which are non-negotiable are those we have to Christ. Finally, we teach about the importance of true gospel fellowship which is not constrained by worldly values which overlook those who seem to have little or nothing to offer.