Keraia
1 Corinthians 9

1 Corinthians 9:18

The Rights of an Apostle · 1 Corinthians 9:1–18
Read 1 Corinthians 9

Translations

Modern
What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use up my rights in preaching it.
Traditional
What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.
Literal
What then is my reward? That preaching the gospel, I should lay down the gospel free of charge, so as not to use up my authority in the gospel.
Latin
Quæ est ergo merces mea? ut Evangelium prædicans, sine sumptu ponam Evangelium, ut non abutar potestate mea in Evangelio.

Original

Greek
English
What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not use up my rights in preaching it.

Notes

1 Corinthians 9:18

Paul felt satisfied preaching the good news about Jesus without asking for payment. This sets an example for how Christians must be willing to give up their rights to help others (see 8:13).

1 Corinthians 9:1–27

Continuing the argument from 8:1, Paul shares personal examples of giving up his rights to help others (see study note on 1 Corinthians 8:1–11:1).

Theme notes and profiles

Corinth Paul (Saul) Giving up Rights

Parallels

Deuteronomy 18:1–8

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Brothers of Jesus Conscience First Letter to the Corinthians Gospel Second Letter to the Corinthians

Topics

Christian Minister: Call of Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Emoluments (Benefits) of Evil in Supporting Himself Gospel: Called: Gospel of Christ Gospel: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Ministers: should Preach without Charge, If Possible Ministers: when Faithful are Rewarded Paying the Pastor Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Self-Denial: General Scriptures Concerning