Paul's Rights, Mission Strategy, and Self‑Discipline
1 Corinthians 9:1-27
1Cor.9.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ουκ: PART,neg
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ελευθερος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- ουκ: PART,neg
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- αποστολος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ουχι: PART
- Ιησουν: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- κυριον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ημων: PRON,gen,pl,1
- εορακα: VERB,perf,act,ind,1,sg
- ου: PART,neg
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- εργον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- υμεις: PRON,nom,pl,2
- εστε: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,pl
- εν: PREP
- κυριω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- Acts 9:3-6 (allusion): Paul's Damascus Road vision where he literally 'saw' the risen Lord—grounds for his claim 'have I not seen Jesus our Lord?'. The passage is the historical basis for his experiential authority.
- Galatians 1:11-16 (verbal): Paul insists his apostleship is not from men but from a revelation of Jesus Christ and that God revealed his Son to him—parallels the appeal to direct revelation and apostolic legitimacy in 1 Cor 9:1.
- Romans 1:1 (thematic): Paul's self-designation as 'called to be an apostle' echoes the rhetorical question 'am I not an apostle?' and frames his authority as divinely commissioned.
- 1 Corinthians 4:15 (verbal): Paul's claim 'I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel' corresponds to 1 Cor 9:1's 'are not ye my work in the Lord?', both asserting his paternal, formative relationship to the Corinthian believers.
- 2 Corinthians 12:12 (thematic): Paul appeals to the 'signs of a true apostle' to vindicate his office—parallel to the defensive posture in 1 Cor 9:1 where he asserts apostolic status and freedom to support his rights.
Alternative generated candidates
- Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord?
- Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord?
1Cor.9.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- αλλοις: PRON,dat,pl,m
- ουκ: PART,neg
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- αποστολος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- αλλα: CONJ
- γε: PART
- υμιν: PRON,dat,pl,2
- ειμι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- γαρ: PART
- σφραγις: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- αποστολης: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- υμεις: PRON,nom,pl,2
- εστε: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,pl
- εν: PREP
- κυριω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 3:3 (thematic): Paul describes the Corinthian believers as a letter of Christ known and read by all—parallel idea that the Corinthians themselves are the visible proof (seal) of his apostolic ministry.
- 2 Corinthians 1:22 (verbal): Paul says God has also 'sealed us and given the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee'—uses the image of a seal/guarantee akin to calling the Corinthians the 'seal' of his apostleship.
- Ephesians 1:13 (verbal): Believers are 'sealed with the Holy Spirit'—same sealing language that grounds identity and authorization, resonating with Paul’s claim that the Corinthians are the seal of his office 'in the Lord.'
- 2 Corinthians 12:12 (verbal): Paul appeals to 'the signs of a true apostle' performed among the Corinthians as proof of his apostleship—directly parallels 1 Cor 9:2 where the Corinthians themselves validate his apostolic claim.
- Galatians 1:1 (thematic): Paul emphasizes his apostleship as being 'not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ'—connects to 1 Cor 9:2's stress on apostleship 'in the Lord' and Paul's need to establish his divine commissioning.
Alternative generated candidates
- If others are not apostles, at least I am — for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
- If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you; for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
1Cor.9.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Η: ART,nom,sg,fem
- εμη: PRON,nom,sg,f
- απολογια: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- εμε: PRON,acc,sg,1
- ανακρινουσιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,pl
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- αυτη: PRON,dat,sg,f
Parallels
- Acts 22:1 (verbal): Paul opens his speech with ἐπιστρέψας/ἀπολογίαν — a direct courtroom-style ‘defense,’ paralleling ὑμῶν ἀπολογία in 1 Cor 9:3.
- Acts 24:10 (verbal): Paul explicitly declares he will make his defense to Felix (οἶμαι εὐδαίμων εἶναι ὅτι ἐμαυτὸν ἀπολογοῦμαι), echoing the motif of personal apologia.
- Acts 26:1 (structural): Paul formally begins a personal defense before Agrippa (Ἐκτείνας δὲ τὴν χεῖρα ἔλεγεν ἑαυτὸν ἀπολογούμενος), mirroring the forensic setting and function of 1 Cor 9:3.
- 1 Peter 3:15 (verbal): Uses the same noun ἀπολογία — ‘always be ready to give a defense’ — linking 1 Cor 9:3’s claim to the broader early Christian practice of offering a reasoned apologia.
Alternative generated candidates
- This is my defense before those who would examine me: do we not have a right to eat and to drink?
- This is my defense before those who examine me.
1Cor.9.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- μη: PART
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εχομεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- εξουσιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- φαγειν: VERB,aor,act,inf
- και: CONJ
- πειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- Matthew 10:10 (verbal): Jesus' instruction that 'the worker is worthy of his food' parallels Paul's appeal to an apostle's right to eat and drink—same principle of entitlement to support.
- Luke 10:7 (verbal): Parallel wording to Matthew 10:10 ('the laborer deserves his wages'); Luke's saying is later cited and embodied in apostolic practice concerning provision for ministry.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Explicitly cites 'The laborer deserves his wages' (along with 'Do not muzzle the ox'), applying the same maxim to support of church leaders—directly related to Paul's claim of a right to eat and drink.
- 1 Corinthians 9:14 (structural): Within the same argument Paul concludes that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living from the gospel—this verse formulates the same entitlement asserted in 9:4.
- 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10 (thematic): Paul emphasizes that he and his companions worked so as not to be a burden, contrasting the right to support with the voluntary choice to labor—a practical foil to the claim in 9:4.
Alternative generated candidates
- Do we not have a right to be accompanied by a believing wife, as the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas?
- Do we not have the right to eat and to drink?
1Cor.9.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- μη: PART
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εχομεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- εξουσιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- αδελφην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- γυναικα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- περιαγειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- ως: ADV
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- λοιποι: ADJ,nom,pl,m
- αποστολοι: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- αδελφοι: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κυριου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- Κηφας: NOUN,nom,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:4-6 (verbal): Immediate context: Paul develops the same argument about apostolic 'rights' (food, drink, and support), explicitly paralleling his claim to the right to be accompanied and supported like other apostles.
- Galatians 1:18-19 (allusion): Paul names Cephas (Peter) and later James as 'the Lord's brother' (Gal. 1:19), echoing the identification in 1 Corinthians 9:5 of 'the brothers of the Lord and Cephas.'
- Mark 6:3 (thematic): Lists Jesus’ brothers (James, Joses, Judas, Simon) and refers to 'brothers' of Jesus—background for the phrase 'the brothers of the Lord' in 1 Cor 9:5.
- Acts 1:14 (thematic): Describes the early Jerusalem group meeting 'with his [Jesus'] brothers,' providing an early-Jewish-Christian setting for the presence and recognition of Jesus’ brothers among the apostles/Christian community.
- 2 Corinthians 11:7-9 (thematic): Paul explains he did not use his apostolic rights (he supported himself/worked) even though he had them—this contrasts with 1 Cor 9:5 where he affirms the legitimacy of such rights (e.g., accompaniment by a believing wife).
Alternative generated candidates
- Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working?
- Do we not have the right to be accompanied by a believing wife, as do the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas?
1Cor.9.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- μονος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- και: CONJ
- Βαρναβας: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εχομεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- εξουσιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- μη: PART
- εργαζεσθαι: VERB,pres,mid/pass,inf
Parallels
- 1Corinthians 9:4 (verbal): Part of the same series of rhetorical questions about an apostle’s rights (to eat and drink, to be supported) — closely parallels the claim of entitlement in v.6.
- 1Corinthians 9:12 (structural): Directly echoes and completes the thought of v.6: though they have the right to be supported, Paul and companions did not use that right, explaining their voluntary labor.
- 1Thessalonians 2:9 (thematic): Paul emphasizes his own hard work and toil while proclaiming the gospel so as not to be a burden to the Thessalonians, reflecting the same principle behind v.6.
- Acts 18:3 (thematic): Describes Paul working with Aquila and Priscilla as a tentmaker in Corinth — concrete example of Paul’s choice to work rather than claim support.
- Luke 10:7 (thematic): Jesus’ saying that 'the laborer deserves his wages' articulates the general principle of support for ministry that Paul is debating in 1 Cor 9, even as Paul explains why he sometimes forgoes that right.
Alternative generated candidates
- Who ever serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Who tends a flock and does not drink of the flock’s milk?
- Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working?
1Cor.9.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- στρατευεται: VERB,pres,mid,ind,3,sg
- ιδιοις: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- οψωνιοις: NOUN,dat,pl,m
- ποτε: ADV
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- φυτευει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- αμπελωνα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- καρπον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εσθιει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- ποιμαινει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- ποιμνην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- εκ: PREP
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- γαλακτος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- ποιμνης: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εσθιει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- Luke 10:7 (verbal): 'The laborer deserves his wages' — a similar wording and principle about the right of one who serves to receive support.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Quotes Luke 10:7 (and echoes Deut 25:4) to defend material support for those who labor in ministry.
- Deuteronomy 25:4 (allusion): Old Testament precedent (do not muzzle the ox) used elsewhere by Paul in this argument to justify a worker's share of the produce.
- Galatians 6:6 (thematic): 'Let the one who is taught share all good things with the teacher' — a comparable principle that those who minister should benefit materially from those they serve.
- 1 Corinthians 9:4-6 (structural): Immediate context within Paul's argument about the rights of apostles (examples showing ministers' entitlement to material support).
Alternative generated candidates
- Do I speak this from a human point of view? Does not the law say the same?
- Who ever serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its fruit? Who tends a flock and does not drink the milk of the flock?
1Cor.9.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Μη: PART
- κατα: PREP
- ανθρωπον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ταυτα: PRON,acc,pl,n
- λαλω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- νομος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ταυτα: PRON,acc,pl,n
- ου: PART,neg
- λεγει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 25:4 (quotation): Paul's 'does not the law say' points to the Deuteronomy proverb ('You shall not muzzle an ox'), which he quotes in 1 Cor 9:9–10 to justify that those who serve deserve material support.
- Luke 10:7 (verbal): Jesus' saying 'the laborer deserves his wages/food' echoes the same principle Paul invokes about the right of ministers to be supported.
- Matthew 10:10 (thematic): Jesus' instruction that disciples are 'worthy of their keep' provides a parallel ethical principle concerning support for those who minister, which Paul applies to apostles.
- 1 Corinthians 9:3-6 (structural): Immediate context: a series of rhetorical questions in which Paul defends his apostolic rights—verse 8 continues this argumentative pattern by appealing to the law.
- Galatians 6:6 (thematic): Paul's instruction that the one taught should share all good things with the teacher reflects the same concern for materially supporting those who preach and teach.
Alternative generated candidates
- For it is written in the Law: “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain.” Is God concerned for oxen?
- Do I say these things as a mere man? Does not the law say the same?
1Cor.9.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εν: PREP
- γαρ: PART
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- Μωυσεως: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- νομω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- γεγραπται·Ου: VERB,perf,pass,ind,3,sg
- κημωσεις: VERB,fut,act,ind,2,sg
- βουν: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- αλοωντα: PART,pres,act,acc,sg,m
- μη: PART
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- βοων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
- μελει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- θεω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 25:4 (quotation): The exact law Paul cites — 'You shall not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain' is found here in the Mosaic Law, which he invokes as scriptural precedent.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Explicitly cites the same Deuteronomy text alongside Jesus' saying ('The laborer is worthy of his wages') to argue for material support of ministers, echoing Paul's use of the ox proverb.
- Luke 10:7 (verbal): Jesus' saying 'the laborer deserves his wages/food' is the wording later paired with Deut 25:4 in NT arguments for supporting ministers; Paul’s appeal to the ox-law functions with the same principle.
- Matthew 10:10 (verbal): Parallel to Luke 10:7 — Matthew records Jesus' teaching that 'the worker is worthy of his food,' a saying that the NT uses alongside Deut 25:4 to justify provision for those who serve.
Alternative generated candidates
- Or does he say it altogether for our sake? Indeed, for our sake it was written, because the plowman ought to plow in hope, and the thresher to reap in hope.
- For it is written in the law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle the ox when it treads out the grain.” Is God concerned for oxen?
1Cor.9.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- δι᾽ημας: PREP+PRON,acc,pl,1
- παντως: ADV
- λεγει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- δι᾽ημας: PREP+PRON,acc,pl,1
- γαρ: PART
- εγραφη: VERB,aor,pass,ind,3,sg
- οτι: CONJ
- οφειλει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- επ᾽ελπιδι: PREP+NOUN,dat,sg,f
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- αροτριων: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- αροτριαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- αλοων: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- επ᾽ελπιδι: PREP+NOUN,dat,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- μετεχειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 25:4 (quotation): The direct Old Testament source Paul cites — "You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain" — which he applies to ministers' right to material support.
- Luke 10:7 (verbal): Jesus' saying that "the laborer deserves his wages" parallels Paul's appeal to a worker's right to benefit from his work and is later quoted in pastoral contexts.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Combines the Deuteronomy injunction and the saying about a worker's wages (quoting Scripture and the Lord) to support providing for ministers — echoes Paul's argument about support for those who serve.
- 1 Corinthians 9:14 (thematic): Paul's concluding principle in the same chapter: those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel, developing the practical implication of the Deuteronomy citation.
Alternative generated candidates
- If we sowed spiritual things for you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?
- Or does he speak altogether for our sake? Certainly for our sake it was written, because the plowman should plow in hope and the thresher thresh in hope, that they should have a share in the harvest.
1Cor.9.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- ημεις: PRON,nom,pl,1
- υμιν: PRON,dat,pl,2
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- πνευματικα: ADJ,acc,pl,n
- εσπειραμεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,pl
- μεγα: ADJ,acc,sg,n
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- ημεις: PRON,nom,pl,1
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- σαρκικα: ADJ,acc,pl,n
- θερισομεν: VERB,fut,act,ind,1,pl
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:7-10 (structural): Immediate context: Paul develops the same argument about a worker's right to material support, using agricultural imagery (sowing and reaping) and examples from everyday life to justify receiving support.
- 1 Corinthians 9:14 (verbal): Paul's concluding principle in the same chapter—that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel—summarizes and reinforces the claim that ministers may reap material support from those they serve.
- Galatians 6:6 (thematic): Parallel teaching that those who are taught the word should share material goods with their teacher—same ethic of supporting those who minister spiritually.
- Luke 10:7 (quotation): Jesus' saying, “The laborer deserves his wages/food,” provides the Gospel source-language and ethical precedent Paul invokes for ministers' entitlement to sustenance.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Explicit application of the principle to church leaders—quotes the saying about the laborer being worthy of his reward to argue for material provision for elders and ministers.
Alternative generated candidates
- If others share this right over you, do we not even more? Nevertheless, we did not use this right; instead we endure all things so as not to hinder the gospel of Christ.
- If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap material things from you?
1Cor.9.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- αλλοι: ADJ,nom,pl,m
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- εξουσιας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- μετεχουσιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,pl
- ου: PART,neg
- μαλλον: ADV
- ημεις: PRON,nom,pl,1
- Αλλ᾽ουκ: CONJ
- εχρησαμεθα: VERB,aor,mid,ind,1,pl
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- εξουσια: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- ταυτη: PRO,dat,sg,f
- αλλα: CONJ
- παντα: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- στεγομεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- ινα: CONJ
- μη: PART
- τινα: PRON,acc,sg,m
- εγκοπην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- δωμεν: VERB,pres,act,sub,1,pl
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ευαγγελιω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Cor.9:4-6 (structural): Immediate context: Paul’s larger argument about the apostolic right to material support and his decision not to invoke it—this verse continues and exemplifies that argument.
- 1 Cor.9:14 (verbal): Directly affirms the principle underlying 9:12: those who proclaim the gospel have a legitimate claim to be supported (’the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living from the gospel’).
- Matt.10:10; Luke 10:7 (quotation): Jesus’ saying that ‘the laborer deserves his wages’ (also used in Luke) provides the same justificatory principle for supporting messengers of God that Paul invokes here.
- 1 Tim.5:18 (verbal): Uses the same pair of scriptural principles (‘Do not muzzle the ox’ and ‘The laborer deserves his wages’) to argue for material support of ministers—parallels Paul’s appeal to legitimate rights of servants of the gospel.
- Gal.6:6 (thematic): Thematic parallel about the obligation of those who benefit from teaching to share material support with their teachers (‘Let the one who is taught share all good things with the one who teaches’).
Alternative generated candidates
- Do others take this right from you? Or do we alone not have a right to refrain from working?
- If others share this right over you, do we not even more? Yet we have not made use of this right; rather we endure everything so as not to hinder the gospel of Christ.
1Cor.9.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ουκ: PART,neg
- οιδατε: VERB,perf,act,ind,2,pl
- οτι: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- ιερα: NOUN,nom,pl,n
- εργαζομενοι: VERB,pres,mid,part,nom,m,pl
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- εκ: PREP
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- ιερου: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- εσθιουσιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,pl
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- θυσιαστηριω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- παρεδρευοντες: PTCP,pres,act,nom,pl,m
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- θυσιαστηριω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- συμμεριζονται: VERB,pres,mid,ind,3,pl
Parallels
- Numbers 18:8-13 (verbal): Prescribes that the Levites and priests are to receive portions of the offerings and may eat of the sacred gifts—direct legal background for Paul’s claim that those who serve at the sanctuary eat of the things of the temple.
- Deuteronomy 18:1-5 (verbal): States that the priests and Levites have no allotment of land but live on the offerings and sacrifices of the people—parallels Paul’s argument about the rightful support of temple ministers.
- Leviticus 6:16-18 (verbal): Specifies that the priests are to eat certain portions of the offerings and that these portions are most holy—an earlier Torah regulation echoed in Paul’s appeal to priestly practice.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Affirms the principle that 'the worker deserves his wages' in applying support for Christian ministers; parallels Paul’s argument that those who minister in sacred service should be supported (1 Cor 9:13–14).
Alternative generated candidates
- Do you not know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar partake of the altar’s offerings?
- Do you not know that those who serve the holy things eat from the temple, and those who attend the altar share in what is offered on the altar?
1Cor.9.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ουτως: ADV
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- κυριος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- διεταξεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- ευαγγελιον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- καταγγελλουσιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,pl
- εκ: PREP
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- ευαγγελιου: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- ζην: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- Luke 10:7 (quotation): Jesus' instruction to his sent disciples, 'the laborer deserves his wages,' is the Lord's command about support for those proclaiming the gospel that Paul appeals to here.
- Matthew 10:10 (quotation): Parallel mission saying in Matthew's account—Jesus tells missionaries they are worthy of material provision—echoes Paul's claim that preachers should live from the gospel.
- 1 Timothy 5:18 (quotation): Pauline/ pastoral instruction that 'the laborer is worthy of his wages' (quoting Scripture and the Lord) applies the same principle of material support for ministers found in 1 Cor 9:14.
- Galatians 6:6 (thematic): Commands that those taught the word should share material benefits with their teacher reflect the same ethical principle of supporting those who preach.
- Luke 8:1-3 (thematic): Narrative example of women who supported Jesus and the Twelve from their resources illustrates the practice of financially supporting itinerant ministers, consistent with Paul's norm.
Alternative generated candidates
- So also the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should live from the gospel.
- So also the Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to live by the gospel.
1Cor.9.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- δε: CONJ
- ου: PART,neg
- κεχρημαι: VERB,perf,mid,ind,1,sg
- ουδενι: PRON,dat,sg,n
- τουτων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εγραψα: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- ταυτα: PRON,acc,pl,n
- ινα: CONJ
- ουτως: ADV
- γενηται: VERB,fut,mid,ind,3,sg
- εν: PREP
- εμοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- καλον: ADJ,nom/acc,sg,neut
- γαρ: PART
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- μαλλον: ADV
- αποθανειν: VERB,aor,act,inf
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- καυχημα: NOUN,nom,sg,neut
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- ουδεις: PRON,nom,sg,m
- κενωσει: VERB,fut,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:12 (verbal): Same line of argument about apostolic rights—Paul again states he did not make use of his rights so as not to hinder the gospel.
- 1 Corinthians 9:18 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the thought: Paul explains his motive for foregoing rights—preaching free of charge so his boasting is not made void.
- 2 Corinthians 11:7-9 (thematic): Paul recounts refusing financial support and working with his hands to avoid burdening churches—another example of relinquishing rights for the sake of the gospel.
- Galatians 6:14 (thematic): Paul insists his only boast is in the cross of Christ, echoing 1 Cor 9:15's concern that his boast not be nullified or misused.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (thematic): Paul's willingness to embrace weakness and even suffering so God's power may rest on him parallels the readiness in 1 Cor 9:15 to give up rights—or life—rather than have his boast emptied.
Alternative generated candidates
- But I have not used any of these rights. And I write this not to bring shame upon myself — for I would rather die than that anyone should make my boast void.
- But I have not used any of these rights, nor am I writing to secure such a right for myself. For I would rather die than have anyone deprive me of my boast.
1Cor.9.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εαν: CONJ
- γαρ: PART
- ευαγγελιζωμαι: VERB,pres,mid/pass,subj,1,sg
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- καυχημα: NOUN,nom,sg,neut
- αναγκη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- γαρ: PART
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- επικειται·ουαι: VERB,pres,mid/pass,ind,3,sg+INTJ
- γαρ: PART
- μοι: PRON,dat,sg,1
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- εαν: CONJ
- μη: PART
- ευαγγελισωμαι: VERB,aor,mid/pass,subj,1,sg
Parallels
- Romans 1:14-16 (thematic): Paul insists on his obligation and eagerness to preach the gospel (debtor/obligation language and not ashamed of the gospel), paralleling the sense of necessity in 1 Cor 9:16.
- Acts 20:24 (thematic): Paul states that his primary aim is to testify the gospel and that nothing deters him—echoing the ‘necessity’ and personal woe if he fails to preach.
- 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 (verbal): ‘The love of Christ compels/us’ (Greek compulsion language) corresponds to 1 Cor 9:16’s motif of being under necessity to proclaim Christ.
- 2 Timothy 4:2 (thematic): The apostolic injunction to ‘preach the word’ urgently and persistently (in and out of season) reflects the imperative and unavoidable duty expressed in 1 Cor 9:16.
- Romans 15:20-21 (thematic): Paul’s missionary principle—seeking to preach where Christ is not named—illustrates the driving obligation behind his preaching ministry conveyed in 1 Cor 9:16.
Alternative generated candidates
- For if I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, for necessity is laid upon me; woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
- For if I preach the gospel, that is no reason for me to boast, for necessity is laid upon me; woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
1Cor.9.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- γαρ: PART
- εκων: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- πρασσω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- μισθον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- εχω·ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- ακων: ADV
- οικονομιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- πεπιστευμαι: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,1,sg
Parallels
- Eph.3.2 (verbal): Uses the same technical term οἰκονομία (stewardship/administration): Paul speaks of the 'stewardship of God's grace' entrusted to him, paralleling 'οἰκονομίαν πεπιστευμαι' in 1 Cor 9:17.
- Mark 9:41 (verbal): Speaks of a μισθός (reward) given even for small acts done in Jesus' name—parallels 1 Cor 9:17's contrast between voluntary action with a reward and entrusted duty.
- Luke 12:48 (thematic): Links stewardship and accountability: 'to whom much is given, much will be required,' reflecting the idea of being entrusted with a responsibility and the differing status of voluntary service versus an entrusted charge.
- 1 Thess.2:4 (thematic): Paul defends his ministry as approved by God and not seeking human praise; parallels 1 Cor 9:17's concern with motive and the nature of ministerial service (voluntary action vs entrusted stewardship).
- 1 Pet.4:10 (verbal): Calls believers 'good stewards' (οἰκονόμοι) of God's varied gifts—the same steward/ stewardship language and the idea of entrusted service as in 1 Cor 9:17.
Alternative generated candidates
- For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, I am nevertheless entrusted with a stewardship.
- If I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, then I am entrusted with a stewardship.
1Cor.9.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- ουν: CONJ
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- μισθος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ινα: CONJ
- ευαγγελιζομενος: VERB,pres,mid,part,nom,sg,m
- αδαπανον: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- θησω: VERB,aor,act,subj,1,sg
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- ευαγγελιον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- εις: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- μη: PART
- καταχρησασθαι: VERB,aor,mid,inf
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- εξουσια: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- εν: PREP
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ευαγγελιω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:15-17 (structural): Immediate context: Paul develops the same argument about willingly preaching the gospel without charge and the sense of stewardship/compulsion that motivates him not to claim his rights.
- 1 Corinthians 9:14 (verbal): Directly related statement that those who proclaim the gospel have a right to live from the gospel—Paul here explains why he forgoes that right in practice.
- 2 Thessalonians 3:8-9 (thematic): Paulic theme of refusing to be a burden or to claim rights (he worked with his hands and did not make demands), offering an example of sacrificial restraint similar to 1 Cor 9:18.
- Luke 10:7 (thematic): Jesus' teaching that 'the laborer deserves his wages' represents the standard right to support for ministry that Paul acknowledges but chooses not to fully exercise here.
- Acts 20:33-35 (thematic): Paul's practice in Acts of refusing financial gain and supporting himself while ministering parallels his decision to 'offer the gospel free of charge' to avoid misusing his apostolic authority.
Alternative generated candidates
- What then is my reward? That, in preaching the gospel, I may offer it free of charge and not make full use of my rights in the gospel.
- What then is my reward? That in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel.
1Cor.9.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ελευθερος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- γαρ: PART
- ων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- εκ: PREP
- παντων: ADJ,gen,pl,m
- πασιν: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- εμαυτον: PRON,acc,sg,m
- εδουλωσα: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,sg
- ινα: CONJ
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- πλειονας: ADJ,acc,pl,m
- κερδησω·: VERB,aor,act,subj,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:20-23 (structural): Immediate continuation of the same thought: Paul describes becoming 'all things to all people' and adapting to different groups in order to win them—expansion of 9:19's self-subordination for others' sake.
- 1 Corinthians 10:33 (verbal): Paul states he does 'all things' not seeking his own advantage but the advantage of many, so that they may be saved—echoes 9:19's motive of self-limitation to gain others.
- Mark 10:44-45 (thematic): Jesus teaches that greatness is found in serving others and that he came to give his life as a ransom—models the self-emptying, servant-hearted mission underlying Paul's becoming 'a servant to all.'
- Philippians 2:5-8 (thematic): Christ’s kenotic example—humbled himself, became obedient to death—provides the theological basis for Paul’s voluntary self-limitation and servanthood in 1 Cor 9:19.
- Romans 15:1-3 (thematic): Exhorts the strong to bear with the weak and to please others for their good, not themselves; parallels Paul’s ethic of renouncing personal freedom to benefit and win others.
Alternative generated candidates
- For though I am free from all, I have become a servant to all, that I might win more of them.
- Though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.
1Cor.9.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- εγενομην: VERB,aor,mid,ind,1,sg
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- Ιουδαιοις: NOUN,dat,pl,m
- ως: ADV
- Ιουδαιος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ινα: CONJ
- Ιουδαιους: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- κερδησω·τοις: VERB,aor,act,subj,1,sg
- υπο: PREP
- νομον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ως: ADV
- υπο: PREP
- νομον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- μη: PART
- ων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- αυτος: PRON,nom,sg,3,m
- υπο: PREP
- νομον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ινα: CONJ
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- υπο: PREP
- νομον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- κερδησω·: VERB,aor,act,subj,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:19 (structural): Immediate context—Paul states his voluntary servitude and freedom that grounds his adaptive behavior in v.20.
- 1 Corinthians 9:22 (verbal): Closely related summary statement: 'I have become all things to all men' restates the same adaptive strategy.
- Acts 16:3 (thematic): Narrative example—Paul circumcises Timothy 'because of the Jews' to avoid hindrance, illustrating pragmatic adaptation to Jewish sensitivities.
- Galatians 2:3-5 (thematic): Paul refuses to force Gentiles to be circumcised (not bringing them under the law) while engaging with Jews—reflects the same principle of becoming what is necessary without submitting to the law.
Alternative generated candidates
- To the Jews I became as a Jew, so that I might win Jews; to those under the law I became as one under the law — though I myself am not under the law — so that I might win those under the law.
- To the Jews I became as a Jew, to win Jews; to those under the law I became as one under the law, though I myself am not under the law, to win those under the law.
1Cor.9.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- ανομοις: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- ως: ADV
- ανομος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- μη: PART
- ων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- ανομος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- θεου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- αλλ᾽εννομος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ινα: CONJ
- κερδανω: VERB,pres,act,sub,1,sg
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- ανομους·: ADJ,acc,pl,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:20 (structural): Immediate parallel in the same pericope: Paul’s pattern of becoming like his interlocutors ('to the Jews I became as a Jew') frames the statement about becoming 'as one without law.'
- 1 Corinthians 9:22 (thematic): Closely related summary statement ('I have become all things to all people') expressing the same missionary tactic and purpose—to win others—found in 9:21.
- Galatians 6:2 (verbal): Uses the specific phrase 'the law of Christ,' directly paralleling 1 Cor 9:21's contrast between the law of God and 'the law of Christ.'
- Galatians 5:18 (thematic): Articulates Paul’s doctrine of Christian status ('if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law'), relating to 1 Cor 9:21’s 'not being without the law of God' / 'under the law of Christ' distinction.
- Romans 6:14 (thematic): Contains the theological contrast 'not under law but under grace,' echoing 1 Cor 9:21’s concern with status relative to law and the new relationship in Christ.
Alternative generated candidates
- To those outside the law I became as one outside the law — not being outside God’s law but under Christ’s law — so that I might win those outside the law.
- To those outside the law I became as one outside the law—though not being outside God’s law but under the law of Christ—so that I might win those outside the law.
1Cor.9.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εγενομην: VERB,aor,mid,ind,1,sg
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- ασθενεσιν: NOUN,dat,pl,m
- ασθενης: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- ινα: CONJ
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- ασθενεις: ADJ,acc,pl,m
- κερδησω·τοις: VERB,fut,act,ind,1,sg
- πασιν: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- γεγονα: VERB,perf,act,ind,1,sg
- παντα: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- ινα: CONJ
- παντως: ADV
- τινας: PRON,acc,pl,m
- σωσω: VERB,fut,act,ind,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:19 (structural): Immediate context: Paul explains his freedom and voluntary service—'though I am free from all, I made myself a servant to all'—the same strategy of adapting to others to win them (ties directly to 9:22).
- 1 Corinthians 10:33 (verbal): Paul says he seeks to please all in everything 'not seeking my own profit but the profit of many, that they may be saved,' echoing the language and aim of becoming 'all things' to 'save' some.
- Philippians 2:6-7 (thematic): Christ's kenosis—'made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant'—provides the theological model for self-emptying adaptability that Paul describes in becoming like others for their sake.
- Mark 2:15-17 (allusion): Jesus' association with 'sinners' and the saying 'those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick' parallels Paul's willingness to 'become weak to the weak' in order to reach those in need.
Alternative generated candidates
- To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.
- To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.
1Cor.9.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- παντα: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- δε: CONJ
- ποιω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- δια: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- ευαγγελιον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- ινα: CONJ
- συγκοινωνος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- γενωμαι: VERB,aor,mid,subj,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:22 (verbal): Immediate context — Paul describes becoming 'all things to all people' to win some, leading into 9:23's declaration that he does all for the sake of the gospel and to become a fellow-partaker.
- Philippians 1:5 (verbal): Uses the language of 'fellowship/participation in the gospel' (συμμετοχή), paralleling 9:23's concern with partnership in and commitment to the gospel.
- Romans 1:16 (thematic): Both verses foreground the centrality of the gospel to Paul’s identity and mission — he is committed to the gospel’s power and proclamation without shame.
- Acts 20:24 (thematic): Paul states he counts not his life precious if he may finish his course and ministry to testify to the gospel of God's grace — a parallel emphasis on sacrificial action for the sake of the gospel.
- 1 Corinthians 10:33 (thematic): Paul’s stated aim to please everyone in order to save some echoes 9:23’s motive of doing all things for the gospel and to become a partner in it for others’ benefit.
Alternative generated candidates
- I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
- I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.
1Cor.9.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ουκ: PART,neg
- οιδατε: VERB,perf,act,ind,2,pl
- οτι: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- εν: PREP
- σταδιω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- τρεχοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- παντες: ADJ,nom,pl,m
- μεν: PART
- τρεχουσιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,pl
- εις: PREP
- δε: CONJ
- λαμβανει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- βραβειον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- ουτως: ADV
- τρεχετε: VERB,pres,act,imp,2,pl
- ινα: CONJ
- καταλαβητε: VERB,aor,act,subj,2,pl
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:25 (structural): Immediate continuation of the athletic metaphor—contrasts perishable wreaths with an imperishable prize and emphasizes self-discipline among competitors.
- Hebrews 12:1-2 (verbal): Uses the same race imagery ('let us run with endurance the race set before us') to exhort perseverance and focus on Christ as the goal.
- Philippians 3:12-14 (verbal): Paul's personal application of athletic language ('press on toward the goal for the prize') to describe striving for the heavenly call.
- 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (thematic): Paul's mature reflection likens faithful ministry to finishing a race and receiving a crown (prize) as reward—same telos imagery.
- 2 Timothy 2:5 (allusion): Another athletic simile in Pauline tradition: an athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules—underscores disciplined competition and rightful reward.
Alternative generated candidates
- Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run so that you may obtain it.
- Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.
1Cor.9.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- πας: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- αγωνιζομενος: VERB,pres,mid/pass,part,nom,sg,m
- παντα: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- εγκρατευεται: VERB,pres,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- εκεινοι: PRO,nom,pl,m
- μεν: PART
- ουν: CONJ
- ινα: CONJ
- φθαρτον: ADJ,acc,sg,m
- στεφανον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- λαβωσιν: VERB,aor,act,sub,3,pl
- ημεις: PRON,nom,pl,1
- δε: CONJ
- αφθαρτον: ADJ,nom,sg,n
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:24 (structural): Immediate context: the race/prize metaphor continues—v.24 introduces the athletic image (all run for a prize) that v.25 develops with self‑control and perishable vs. imperishable crowns.
- 2 Timothy 2:5 (verbal): Uses the same athletic imagery and explicit connection between competing as an athlete and receiving a crown, echoing the vocational discipline and reward language of 1 Cor 9:25.
- 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (thematic): Paulic 'fight/finish the race/keep the faith' language culminating in a crown of righteousness parallels the motif of disciplined struggle leading to an imperishable reward.
- Philippians 3:14 (thematic): Paul’s pursuit language—pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call—resonates with the idea of disciplined effort to obtain an imperishable crown.
- Hebrews 12:1-2 (thematic): The exhortation to run with endurance the race set before us and to look to Jesus as example parallels the race/discipline motif and the call to sustained self‑control for a heavenly outcome.
Alternative generated candidates
- Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one.
- Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable crown; we an imperishable.
1Cor.9.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- τοινυν: PART
- ουτως: ADV
- τρεχω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ως: ADV
- ουκ: PART,neg
- αδηλως: ADV
- ουτως: ADV
- πυκτευω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ως: ADV
- ουκ: PART,neg
- αερα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- δερων·: PART,pres,act,nom,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:24 (structural): Immediate context in the same chapter: Paul uses the race metaphor ('do you not know that in a race all the runners run...')—same athletic imagery and language ('run').
- Hebrews 12:1 (thematic): Calls believers to 'run with perseverance the race set before us,' echoing the race/run metaphor for faithful endurance.
- 2 Timothy 4:7 (thematic): Paul's later summary: 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race,' combining the fighting and running metaphors present in 1 Cor 9:26.
- 1 Timothy 6:12 (verbal): Exhorts Timothy to 'fight the good fight of the faith'—a parallel use of combat imagery for the Christian life.
- Philippians 3:14 (thematic): Paul's pursuit language ('I press on toward the goal for the prize') continues the athletic/goal-oriented motif of running toward a prize.
Alternative generated candidates
- I therefore run not as uncertainly; I fight not as one beating the air.
- Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air.
1Cor.9.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- αλλα: CONJ
- υπωπιαζω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- μου: PRON,gen,sg,1
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- σωμα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- και: CONJ
- δουλαγωγω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- μη: PART
- πως: ADV
- αλλοις: PRON,dat,pl,m
- κηρυξας: VERB,aor,act,part,nom,m,sg
- αυτος: PRON,nom,sg,3,m
- αδοκιμος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- γενωμαι: VERB,aor,mid,subj,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 9:24-26 (verbal): Immediate context: Paul uses the athletic race and training imagery (running, boxing, disciplining the body) that culminates in 9:27's statement about disciplining his body to avoid disqualification.
- Philippians 3:12-14 (thematic): Paul's language of striving, pressing on toward the goal, and pursuing the heavenly prize parallels the motif of self-discipline and perseverance in 9:27.
- 2 Timothy 4:7-8 (thematic): Paul's imagery of having 'fought the good fight' and 'finished the race' resonates with the concern in 9:27 about faithful endurance and the danger of being disqualified.
- 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (verbal): The exhortation to 'train yourself to be godly' and the contrast with bodily exercise echoes the language of disciplined training and self-control found in 9:27.
- Hebrews 12:1-2 (thematic): The call to 'run with endurance' and 'lay aside every weight' parallels the ethical and ascetic emphasis on self-discipline and perseverance reflected in 9:27.
Alternative generated candidates
- But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
- But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are not you my work in the Lord?
If to others I am not an apostle, at least to you I am; for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
This is my defense to those who examine me.
Do we not have the right to eat and to drink?
Do we not have the right to lead about a believing wife, as the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas do?
Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working?
Who ever serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Who tends a flock and does not drink of the flock's milk?
Do I say this from a human point of view? Does not the law say the same?
For it is written in the law of Moses: 'You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain.' Is God concerned for oxen?
Or does he say it altogether for our sake? Yes: for our sake it was written, that the one who plows should plow in hope, and the thresher should thresh in hope and share in the crop.
If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?
If others partake of this right over you, do we not even more? Nevertheless we did not use this right, but we endure all things so as not to hinder the gospel of Christ.
Do you not know that those who minister in holy things eat of the things of the temple, and that those who serve at the altar share in the offerings of the altar? So also the Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to get their living by the gospel. But I have made no use of any of these rights, and I do not write this to secure such a right for myself; for I would rather die than that anyone should make my boasting void.
For if I preach the gospel, I have no ground for glorying, for necessity is laid upon me; woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward; but if not of my own will, I am entrusted with a stewardship.
What then is my reward? That when I preach, I may present the gospel free of charge, so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel.
For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more.
To the Jews I became as a Jew, to win Jews; to those under the law I became as one under the law—though I myself am not under the law—so as to win those under the law.
To those without law I became as one without law (not being without law toward God but under law toward Christ), so as to win those without law.
To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all possible means I might save some.
I do all things for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
Every athlete exercises self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable crown, but we an imperishable.
Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and make it my slave, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.