1 Corinthians 9 -- Authority (Rights) Balanced By Discipline

Yesterday, Paul’s writings showed that knowledge must be balanced by love.  Today, they prove that authority (rights) must be balanced by discipline, my commentary says.  Paul’s discussion about his apostleship authority is not an interruption, but an example of this, it said.  He did this by first defending his right to receive support from a church.  But the Corinthians knew that they weren’t supporting him.  He’d refused it.  So he then defended his right to refuse that support.  “Paul had the authority (right) to receive material support, but being a mature Christian, he balanced his authority with discipline.  He did not have the right to give up his liberty in Christ, but he did have the liberty to give up his rights.”

He did this for the gospel’s sake, so that it wouldn’t be hindered there; for the sinner’s sake, being “total abandonment to the higher law of love”; and for his own sake.  In much the same way that an athlete has to turn down food that will alter his performance if he wants to win, Christians disciplines themselves to keep our rights from becoming hindrances to unbelievers and not helps.  “If we want to serve the Lord and win His reward and approval, we must pay the price,” it said.  “The [incorruptible crown given at the judgment seat of Christ] is given to those who discipline themselves for the sake of serving Christ and winning lost souls.  They keep their bodies under control and keep their eyes on the goal.”

I can sure see this personally myself.  It’s been a very tough three weeks, and I know I’ve still got several tough weeks to go.  Friends have said they’d be sipping wine to unwind if they face the same trials.  But I don’t want to so and lose my witness.  I want to get my strength to continue from my Lord.  I want to trust Him to get me through all of this.  So even though I am free from the law and have the right to do what they recommend, I balance that right with discipline for the sake of love.

Father, thank You for showing me what You’ve already been doing in my life that I hadn’t even realized.  Please continue to strengthen me and show me the right way to live despite the difficulties I’m encountering.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford