Apostle Paul is continuing his thoughts from the previous chapter. There he wrote that although we are free to eat meat offered to idols because they are not alive and not gods, we shouldn’t do it if it would cause a fellow believer who has a weak conscience to sin.
Continuing the thought of freedom and rights in Christ, he reflects on his own life actions. Most of the apostles and pastors had a wife that they brought with them as they traveled from congregation to congregation. People who serve the church don’t need to be single.
Most apostles and pastors received some of the offerings to support themselves, their wives, and their families. People who serve the church don’t need to have an income outside the congregation to support themselves.
Paul did not exercise these two rights because he knew that if he remained single and earned his own income, it would be better for the congregations and the spread of the gospel. He was telling them these things as an example to them and me. It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)
Paul’s also stated that self-sacrifice does not go without rewards (17, 24-27). Jesus will pass out rewards when he comes again. He expects a return on his investment.
Have I sacrificed for those I love? Have I refused my rights and freedom for the sake of others? Every day I have choices.
