The two Greek verbs that are interchangeable and repeated in almost every sentence in this paragraph are “kerdaino” (19-22a) and “sozo” (22b) (transliterations). “Kerdaino” is translated as either “to win” or “might gain”. The English translations that use “might gain” translate the verb as “to win” elsewhere. (1 Peter 3:1; Matthew 23:25). The illustration depicts winning in the Corinthian Isthmian Games, similar to the Greek Olympics. Paul expounds on this in the next paragraph.
The point is to submit to Jesus and the gospel so people may come to faith in Jesus. I am to give up personal culture, family background, personal preference, society tradition, and religious habits so that those I witness to may be open to the good news. One day, Paul played the part of a Jew. Next, he played the part of a Gentile. His mannerisms depended on who he was with, so they would identify with him and be open to what he said.
Paul is following Jesus’ lead, who taught, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave– just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28)
Jesus, the eternal God, submitted himself, being clothed with humanity, becoming like us, so that we could identify with him, and so listen to him, and accept him as the eternal God. Jesus did this to win us to himself. What are you willing to give up to win souls?
