1 Corinthians 4:9
Verse
Context
Servants of Christ
8Already you have all you want. Already you have become rich. Without us, you have become kings. How I wish you really were kings, so that we might be kings with you!9For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like prisoners appointed for death. We have become a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men.
Sermons
George VerwerGeorge VerwerGeorge Verwer
Mike Bickle
T. Austin-Sparks
Keith MalcomsonSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God hath set forth us the apostles last - This whole passage is well explained by Dr. Whitby. "Here the apostle seems to allude to the Roman spectacles, της των θηριομαχων, και μονομαχιας ανδροφονου, that of the Bestiarii and the gladiators, where in the morning men were brought upon the theatres to fight with wild beasts, and to them was allowed armor to defend themselves and smite the beasts that assailed them; but in the meridian or noon-day spectacles the gladiators were brought forth naked, and without any thing to defend themselves from the sword of the assailant; and he that then escaped was only kept for slaughter to another day, so that these men might well be called επιθανατιοι, men appointed for death; and this being the last appearance on the theater for that day, they are said here to be set forth εσχατοι, the last." Of these two spectacles Seneca speaks thus, Epist. vii.: "In the morning men are exposed to lions and bears; at mid-day to their spectators; those that kill are exposed to one another; the victor is detained for another slaughter; the conclusion of the fight is death. The former fighting compared to this was mercy; now it is mere butchery: they have nothing to cover them; their whole body is exposed to every blow, and every stroke produces a wound," etc. We are made a spectacle - Ὁτι θεατρον εγενηθημεν, We are exhibited on the theater to the world; we are lawful booty to all mankind, and particularly to the men of the world, who have their portion in this life. Angels are astonished at our treatment, and so are the more considerate part of men. Who at that time would have coveted the apostolate?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--assigning the reason for desiring that the "reign" of himself and his fellow apostles with the Corinthians were come; namely, the present afflictions of the former. I think--The Corinthians (Co1 3:18) "seemed" to (literally, as here, "thought") themselves "wise in this world." Paul, in contrast, "thinks" that God has sent forth him and his fellow ministers "last," that is, the lowest in this world. The apostles fared worse than even the prophets, who, though sometimes afflicted, were often honored (Kg2 1:10; Kg2 5:9; Kg2 8:9, Kg2 8:12). set forth--as a spectacle or gazing-stock. us the apostles--Paul includes Apollos with the apostles, in the broader sense of the word; so Rom 16:7; Co2 8:23 (Greek for "messengers," apostles). as it were appointed to death--as criminals condemned to die. made a spectacle--literally, "a theatrical spectacle." So the Greek in Heb 10:33, "made a gazing-stock by reproaches and afflictions." Criminals "condemned to die," in Paul's time, were exhibited as a gazing-stock to amuse the populace in the amphitheater. They were "set forth last" in the show, to fight with wild beasts. This explains the imagery of Paul here. (Compare TERTULLIAN [On Modesty, 14]). the world--to the whole world, including "both angels and men"; "the whole family in heaven and earth" (Eph 3:15). As Jesus was "seen of angels" (Ti1 3:16), so His followers are a spectacle to the holy angels who take a deep interest in all the progressive steps of redemption (Eph 3:10; Pe1 1:12). Paul tacitly implies that though "last" and lowest in the world's judgment, Christ's servants are deemed by angels a spectacle worthy of their most intense regard [CHRYSOSTOM]. However, since "the world" is a comprehensive expression, and is applied in this Epistle to the evil especially (Co1 1:27-28), and since the spectators (in the image drawn from the amphitheater) gaze at the show with savage delight, rather than with sympathy for the sufferers, I think bad angels are included, besides good angels. ESTIUS makes the bad alone to be meant. But the generality of the term "angels," and its frequent use in a good sense, as well as Eph 3:10; Pe1 1:12, incline me to include good as well as bad angels, though, for the reasons stated above, the bad may be principally meant.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last,.... Meaning either in time, in respect to the prophets and patriarchs under the former dispensation; and to the apostles, who were sent forth by Christ when on earth; when he, and Barnabas, and others, had received their mission since his ascension; or in state and condition, who though they were set in the first place in the church, yet were the least in the esteem of men; and were treated as the most mean, vile, and abject of creatures; were set or showed forth to public view, and made a gazing stock by reproaches and afflictions. And as it were appointed to death; were continually exposed unto it; were in death oft, always carrying about with them the dying of the Lord Jesus; and were all the day long killed for his sake; all which the apostle not only thought, but believed, were not casual things, fortuitous events, but the determinations and appointments of God; and were brought about in his wise providence to answer some valuable ends, which made him the more easy under them, and reconciled unto them. For we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men. The word translated "spectacle" signifies a "theatre"; and the allusion is to the Roman theatres, in which various exercises were performed, for the gratification of the numerous spectators, who were placed around in a proper distance to behold; and not so much to the gladiators who fought, in such places, for the diversion of the multitude, as to those unhappy persons who were cast to the wild beasts, let loose upon them to devour them; which horrid barbarities were beheld by the surrounding company with great pleasure and satisfaction; and such a spectacle were the apostles in their sufferings and persecutions to the "whole" world, distinguished into "angels" and "men". By "angels" may be meant the devils, who stirred up the princes of this world against the apostles, to persecute and afflict them; than which nothing was a greater pleasure to these envious and malicious spirits: though good angels may be also included, as witnesses of the faith, courage, and constancy of the saints, and as comforters of them in all their tribulations; but evil angels seem chiefly designed: and by "men" are meant wicked men, who are as much pleased to behold the barbarities and butcheries committed upon the people of God, as the Romans in their theatres were to see the tragical scenes that were acted there.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:9 Like prisoners . . . condemned to die by facing wild animals in the amphitheater, the apostles were a spectacle. Paul gladly accepted suffering because God was using it to bring blessing to others (see 2 Cor 1:4-7; 4:7-12; Phil 2:17; Col 1:24).
1 Corinthians 4:9
Servants of Christ
8Already you have all you want. Already you have become rich. Without us, you have become kings. How I wish you really were kings, so that we might be kings with you!9For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like prisoners appointed for death. We have become a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
6) Blessings and 6 Barriers
By George Verwer3.0K1:00:18BlessingsACT 27:211CO 4:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fourth barrier to the preaching of the word of God, which he calls the gossip barrier. He emphasizes that bad news spreads faster than good news and that even great men of faith have experienced this. The speaker then goes on to share six blessings and breakthroughs, as well as six barriers or challenges in ministry. He also highlights the importance of building deeper relationships with God and with others, acknowledging that this may involve heartache and struggles, but ultimately leads to growth and forgiveness.
(Suffering in the Christian Life) 4. Suffering as Testing
By Roy Hession1.5K56:38TestingsMAT 6:331CO 4:91CO 4:132CO 11:232TI 1:8HEB 1:8HEB 2:10In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the challenges and trials faced by the apostles and Christians. He emphasizes their role as fools for Christ's sake, contrasting their weakness with the strength and respect of some Christians. The preacher shares personal experiences of betrayal and the importance of relying on Jesus in difficult times. He then shifts the focus to Jesus himself, highlighting his sufferings and temptations as a qualification for his role as a merciful high priest. The sermon encourages listeners to find comfort in Jesus' understanding of their trials and to trust in his ability to help them overcome.
Make Your Life Count 5
By George Verwer1.1K23:43Counting The Cost1CO 4:91CO 4:162CO 12:91JN 1:91JN 2:1In this sermon, A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of spreading the gospel and evangelizing to the regions beyond. He quotes Paul in 1 Corinthians 4:9, highlighting the sacrifices and challenges faced by the apostles in their mission. Tozer urges people to pray for the Lord to send forth laborers for the harvest. He also mentions the vast number of people in the world who have never heard the gospel and encourages young people to be examples of believers in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity. Tozer emphasizes the power of prayer and its role in the work of God, stating that prayer has been the backbone of their work and has led to the growth of their ministry and the spread of revival in many nations.
Reality & Paul 1
By George Verwer93656:33Reality1CO 4:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the criticisms and challenges faced in their ministry. They emphasize the importance of not letting small mistakes or wasted words hinder the message of God's Word. The speaker reads from 1 Corinthians 4:9, highlighting the apostles' role as fools for Christ's sake, yet wise in Him. They share how criticism can be a blessing in disguise and how learning from critics can lead to growth. The sermon also touches on the significance of simplicity in reaching a diverse and lost world, and the power of prayer from a simple, faithful woman.
David: Being a Person of One Thing
By Mike Bickle2748:27Radical CommitmentPursuit of GodPSA 27:4PSA 34:5PSA 145:5MAT 11:12LUK 10:41JHN 1:51CO 4:9PHP 3:131JN 1:7REV 4:8Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Psalm 27:4, where David expresses his singular desire to dwell in the house of the Lord and behold His beauty. He challenges listeners to approach this verse with fresh eyes, recognizing its depth and the radical commitment it requires. Bickle highlights that this 'one thing' lifestyle is often domesticated in modern culture, yet it is a divine invitation to a deeper relationship with God. He encourages believers to contend for this reality, understanding that it is not an automatic state but a result of years of seeking and pressing into God. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a radical re-evaluation of priorities, urging individuals to make the pursuit of God's beauty their primary daydream.
Set "For a Sign"
By T. Austin-Sparks0ConsecrationBeing a Sign for GodEZK 12:6ACT 1:81CO 4:11CO 4:92CO 2:152CO 3:2EPH 3:10T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that true consecration to God involves becoming a sign of His wisdom and power to the world. He illustrates that just as Moses was a sign to the Israelites, believers today are called to embody God's message and purpose, even at great personal cost. The sermon challenges listeners to embrace their role as signs, reflecting God's glory and truth in a world that often ridicules such commitment. Sparks encourages a deep, personal surrender to God, suggesting that through this, believers can reveal His nature to both humanity and the spiritual realm. Ultimately, he calls for a fresh act of abandonment to God, promising that such a commitment will lead to a profound revelation of His presence.
The Missing Mark of Apostolic Ministry
By Keith Malcomson0MAT 10:40MAT 20:16LUK 10:16JHN 20:271CO 4:92CO 4:12EPH 5:1PHP 2:171PE 2:211PE 4:12Keith Malcomson emphasizes the importance of discerning true apostles from false ones in the Church, highlighting the need for the entire congregation to test those who claim to be apostles based on their qualities and qualifications, not just their titles. He points out that the primary mark of a true apostle is death to self, where they have surrendered their own desires, motives, and needs for the sake of God's work. Drawing from Paul's example, he explains that apostolic ministry involves enduring trials, persecution, and being a spectacle for all to see, ultimately leading to life in the Church through death to self.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God hath set forth us the apostles last - This whole passage is well explained by Dr. Whitby. "Here the apostle seems to allude to the Roman spectacles, της των θηριομαχων, και μονομαχιας ανδροφονου, that of the Bestiarii and the gladiators, where in the morning men were brought upon the theatres to fight with wild beasts, and to them was allowed armor to defend themselves and smite the beasts that assailed them; but in the meridian or noon-day spectacles the gladiators were brought forth naked, and without any thing to defend themselves from the sword of the assailant; and he that then escaped was only kept for slaughter to another day, so that these men might well be called επιθανατιοι, men appointed for death; and this being the last appearance on the theater for that day, they are said here to be set forth εσχατοι, the last." Of these two spectacles Seneca speaks thus, Epist. vii.: "In the morning men are exposed to lions and bears; at mid-day to their spectators; those that kill are exposed to one another; the victor is detained for another slaughter; the conclusion of the fight is death. The former fighting compared to this was mercy; now it is mere butchery: they have nothing to cover them; their whole body is exposed to every blow, and every stroke produces a wound," etc. We are made a spectacle - Ὁτι θεατρον εγενηθημεν, We are exhibited on the theater to the world; we are lawful booty to all mankind, and particularly to the men of the world, who have their portion in this life. Angels are astonished at our treatment, and so are the more considerate part of men. Who at that time would have coveted the apostolate?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--assigning the reason for desiring that the "reign" of himself and his fellow apostles with the Corinthians were come; namely, the present afflictions of the former. I think--The Corinthians (Co1 3:18) "seemed" to (literally, as here, "thought") themselves "wise in this world." Paul, in contrast, "thinks" that God has sent forth him and his fellow ministers "last," that is, the lowest in this world. The apostles fared worse than even the prophets, who, though sometimes afflicted, were often honored (Kg2 1:10; Kg2 5:9; Kg2 8:9, Kg2 8:12). set forth--as a spectacle or gazing-stock. us the apostles--Paul includes Apollos with the apostles, in the broader sense of the word; so Rom 16:7; Co2 8:23 (Greek for "messengers," apostles). as it were appointed to death--as criminals condemned to die. made a spectacle--literally, "a theatrical spectacle." So the Greek in Heb 10:33, "made a gazing-stock by reproaches and afflictions." Criminals "condemned to die," in Paul's time, were exhibited as a gazing-stock to amuse the populace in the amphitheater. They were "set forth last" in the show, to fight with wild beasts. This explains the imagery of Paul here. (Compare TERTULLIAN [On Modesty, 14]). the world--to the whole world, including "both angels and men"; "the whole family in heaven and earth" (Eph 3:15). As Jesus was "seen of angels" (Ti1 3:16), so His followers are a spectacle to the holy angels who take a deep interest in all the progressive steps of redemption (Eph 3:10; Pe1 1:12). Paul tacitly implies that though "last" and lowest in the world's judgment, Christ's servants are deemed by angels a spectacle worthy of their most intense regard [CHRYSOSTOM]. However, since "the world" is a comprehensive expression, and is applied in this Epistle to the evil especially (Co1 1:27-28), and since the spectators (in the image drawn from the amphitheater) gaze at the show with savage delight, rather than with sympathy for the sufferers, I think bad angels are included, besides good angels. ESTIUS makes the bad alone to be meant. But the generality of the term "angels," and its frequent use in a good sense, as well as Eph 3:10; Pe1 1:12, incline me to include good as well as bad angels, though, for the reasons stated above, the bad may be principally meant.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last,.... Meaning either in time, in respect to the prophets and patriarchs under the former dispensation; and to the apostles, who were sent forth by Christ when on earth; when he, and Barnabas, and others, had received their mission since his ascension; or in state and condition, who though they were set in the first place in the church, yet were the least in the esteem of men; and were treated as the most mean, vile, and abject of creatures; were set or showed forth to public view, and made a gazing stock by reproaches and afflictions. And as it were appointed to death; were continually exposed unto it; were in death oft, always carrying about with them the dying of the Lord Jesus; and were all the day long killed for his sake; all which the apostle not only thought, but believed, were not casual things, fortuitous events, but the determinations and appointments of God; and were brought about in his wise providence to answer some valuable ends, which made him the more easy under them, and reconciled unto them. For we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men. The word translated "spectacle" signifies a "theatre"; and the allusion is to the Roman theatres, in which various exercises were performed, for the gratification of the numerous spectators, who were placed around in a proper distance to behold; and not so much to the gladiators who fought, in such places, for the diversion of the multitude, as to those unhappy persons who were cast to the wild beasts, let loose upon them to devour them; which horrid barbarities were beheld by the surrounding company with great pleasure and satisfaction; and such a spectacle were the apostles in their sufferings and persecutions to the "whole" world, distinguished into "angels" and "men". By "angels" may be meant the devils, who stirred up the princes of this world against the apostles, to persecute and afflict them; than which nothing was a greater pleasure to these envious and malicious spirits: though good angels may be also included, as witnesses of the faith, courage, and constancy of the saints, and as comforters of them in all their tribulations; but evil angels seem chiefly designed: and by "men" are meant wicked men, who are as much pleased to behold the barbarities and butcheries committed upon the people of God, as the Romans in their theatres were to see the tragical scenes that were acted there.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:9 Like prisoners . . . condemned to die by facing wild animals in the amphitheater, the apostles were a spectacle. Paul gladly accepted suffering because God was using it to bring blessing to others (see 2 Cor 1:4-7; 4:7-12; Phil 2:17; Col 1:24).