1 Corinthians 9:16
Verse
Context
The Rights of an Apostle
15But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast.16Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!17If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For though I preach the Gospel - I have cause of glorying that I preach the Gospel free of all charges to you; but I cannot glory in being a preacher of the Gospel, because I am not such either by my own skill or power. I have received both the office, and the grace by which I execute the office, from God. I have not only his authority to preach, but that authority obliges me to preach; and if I did not, I should endanger my salvation: yea, wo is unto me, if I preach not the Gospel. As every genuine preacher receives his commission from God alone, it is God alone who can take it away. Wo to that man who runs when God has not sent him; and wo to him who refuses to run, or who ceases to run, when God has sent him.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
though I preach . . . I have nothing to glory of--that is, If I preach the Gospel, and do so not gratuitously, I have no matter for "glorying." For the "necessity" that is laid on me to preach (compare Jer 20:9, and the case of Jonah) does away with ground for "glorying." The sole ground for the latter that I have, is my preaching without charge (Co1 9:18): since there is no necessity laid on me as to the latter, it is my voluntary act for the Gospel's sake.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For if I do this thing willingly,.... That is, not freely and without receiving anything for preaching, without seeking any temporal profits and advantages; nor in pure love to Christ, and the good of souls, without any fear of punishment, or hope of reward; but the apostle supposes a case which was not, and his sense is, that supposing no necessity had been laid upon him, or any injunction or command given him to preach the Gospel, but he had entered on it without any obligation upon him, then, says he, I have a reward; or should have one, or might expect one; so the Jews (q) say, that a reward is given to him, who does anything unbidden: but if against my will, or unwillingly, a dispensation of the Gospel is committed to me; which was his case; the Gospel was committed to his trust, as anything is to the trust and charge of a steward by his lord, who is obliged to take care of it, and is accountable for it, and of whom faithfulness is required; he did not undertake this economy, or dispensation of the Gospel of himself, of his own mind and will, but it was enjoined him by one that had the command over him, and could and did oblige him to take the charge of it; though he made him willing, as well as able to do it: and therefore since this was the case, that it was not at his own option whether he would preach the Gospel or not, but he was obliged to it by one, that had a superior power and influence over him; hence, though he performed it ever so well, and with never so much faithfulness and integrity, he asks in the following verse, (q) Maimon. apud Hammond in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:16 compelled by God to do it: Acts 22:14-15; 26:16-18.
1 Corinthians 9:16
The Rights of an Apostle
15But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast.16Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!17If my preaching is voluntary, I have a reward. But if it is not voluntary, I am still entrusted with a responsibility.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Power of Weeping
By Michael Youssef5.9K20:48PRO 8:13JER 9:1MAT 22:37ROM 1:161CO 9:162TI 4:2JAS 4:10In this sermon, the speaker expresses deep concern and lament over the current condition of the Church of Jesus Christ. He urges the audience not to dismiss his words as judgmental or negative, but rather to share his concern and join him in sounding the alarm. The speaker criticizes the church for its spiritual apathy, reliance on statistics and entertainment, and focus on profitability rather than biblical truth. He emphasizes the need for repentance and turning to God, and confesses his own journey of realizing the importance of tears and vulnerability in his ministry.
Christ - Part 1 (Compilation)
By Compilations4.4K04:24CompilationMRK 16:15LUK 9:23ACT 1:8ROM 12:11CO 9:16GAL 2:201PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the urgency and purpose of the Christian mission. He calls for radical devotion to God and a willingness to leave everything behind to follow Jesus. The preacher challenges the traditional concept of church and emphasizes the importance of being the church and living out the will of God. He encourages believers to consecrate themselves afresh and to make a difference in the world by setting it on fire with the message of the gospel. The sermon draws inspiration from the revolutionary nature of Jesus and his mission to establish the kingdom of God and overcome the powers of darkness.
(John - Part 31): The Unpopularity of Jesus and His Doctrines
By A.W. Tozer4.1K46:47ExpositionalMAT 5:37MAT 10:27JHN 7:1ACT 5:29ROM 12:21CO 9:16GAL 1:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being free to follow God's leading, even if it means going against the expectations of others. He encourages the audience not to judge the motives of others, as we may not fully understand their reasons for their actions. The preacher also highlights the possibility that our own family may be the last to accept us. He shares personal experiences of facing criticism and disappointment from others, but remains steadfast in his commitment to preach what he believes God has called him to preach, whether it aligns with popular expectations or not.
Becoming a Solider God's Army Requires a Personal Calvary (High Quality)
By Keith Daniel3.7K44:21Dying To SelfPSA 16:11MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 17:30ROM 1:161CO 9:161TI 6:12In this sermon, the preacher, Booth, is described as a fearless leader who marches his soldiers into dangerous and crime-infested areas. He dresses his soldiers in unique and cheap uniforms, but equips them with one powerful weapon - the gospel. Booth teaches and prays for these former drunks, transforming them into holy men of God. The sermon emphasizes the sacrifice and worthiness of spreading the message of Jesus, comparing it to the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross. The preacher also mentions a powerful moment where even the prostitutes in the brothels were moved to repentance and brokenness before God's love.
Agony by Leonard Ravenhill
By Compilations3.0K06:06MAT 7:21MAT 16:24MRK 8:36LUK 9:23LUK 14:271CO 9:16GAL 2:20PHP 3:71TI 6:5This sermon emphasizes the sacrificial nature of following Jesus, highlighting the need to surrender all rights and desires to Him, just as Paul considered himself a bond slave of Jesus Christ. It challenges believers to preach with passion rather than professionalism, to avoid commercialism in ministry, and to prioritize sacrifice over success. The message warns against spiritual complacency, self-centeredness, and the danger of managing life without God. It calls for obedience, readiness to bear burdens, and a deep commitment to sacrificial love and service.
Cross Talk Show 1 - Part 1
By K.P. Yohannan2.9K08:33MAT 6:21MAT 6:24MRK 8:36LUK 16:10ROM 10:14ROM 10:171CO 9:161TI 6:101JN 2:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with those who have not heard, highlighting the need for believers to submit their will and resources to God, be good stewards, and make sacrifices for the Kingdom. It challenges listeners to evaluate their love for the world and to prioritize the eternal over the temporary, especially in the small things that may hinder their fruitfulness for God's kingdom.
Cross Talk Show 1 - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan2.4K09:48PRO 22:4MAT 6:19MAT 9:37ROM 10:131CO 1:311CO 9:162CO 5:14PHP 3:8COL 3:11JN 2:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing that all success and accomplishments come from God. It highlights the need to focus on knowing and loving Jesus above all else, with a deep longing to reach the lost world out of love for Him. The speaker, Dr. K.P. Yohannes, shares personal stories and reflections on how his life is dedicated to serving God and spreading the gospel, driven by a desire to know Jesus more intimately.
Through the Bible - 1 Corinthians - Part 1
By Zac Poonen2.2K56:39Through The Bible1CO 1:91CO 2:11CO 3:61CO 4:21CO 9:161CO 12:41CO 12:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being faithful stewards of Christ. He highlights the need to do what God has specifically called us to do, rather than getting caught up in various activities. The speaker encourages simplicity in preaching, emphasizing that the gospel is meant to be understood by all, including children and those with less education. He urges believers to focus on the work of evangelism and building the church, rather than getting caught up in committees and presentations. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of love and appreciation in our interactions with others, rather than criticism.
Submission and Piety at Home
By Keith Daniel2.1K1:33:18Godly HomeJER 20:9EZK 3:14ACT 4:20ACT 5:41ROM 10:141CO 9:161TI 4:13In this video, the speaker reflects on an eight-week preaching tour they recently completed, covering 17 different states. They express their gratitude for the opportunity to preach and the support they received from the church and pastor. The speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel, even in the face of opposition or discouragement. They draw inspiration from the biblical example of Jeremiah or Ezekiel, who felt compelled to speak God's word, even when others did not want to hear it. The speaker encourages listeners to never give up on preaching, even if it means facing challenges or persecution.
Bishop j.c. Ryle: Liverpool's Mr. Protestant (Famous Saints #5)
By Stephen Hamilton1.3K42:28J.C. RyleACT 20:201CO 9:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel and the responsibility that comes with it. He refers to 1 Corinthians 9:16, where the apostle Paul expresses the necessity and burden he feels to preach the gospel. The speaker also discusses the lives of famous Christians from the past and how specific verses of Scripture were significant to them. He highlights the faithful and earnest declaration of biblical truths by these Christians and their urgency in urging people to accept Christ. The sermon concludes with a warning against ungodly and unconverted ministers who lead their congregations astray.
Burning With the Holy Spirit Fire - Reinhard Bonnke
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons1.2K1:05:06EvangelismRadioHoly Spirit EmpowermentJOL 2:28MAT 3:11MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 19:10JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 9:162TI 4:2Reinhard Bonnke passionately shares his journey of faith, emphasizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in evangelism. He recounts his early calling to preach in Africa and the struggles he faced, including a pivotal moment when he asked God for souls rather than money. Bonnke's fervent desire is to see souls saved, believing that the Holy Spirit's fire is essential for effective ministry. He encourages believers to embrace their calling and to actively share the gospel, asserting that the church is a lifeboat meant to rescue the lost. His vision is for nations to be transformed by the gospel, igniting a hunger for souls and a commitment to evangelism.
Judging, Being Judged, and the Marks of a Spiritual Minister
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K28:59JudgingGEN 17:1PSA 121:4LUK 19:131CO 3:101CO 4:51CO 9:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the apostle Paul and his readiness for anything. He emphasizes the importance of being ready for God's calling and being dedicated to doing His will. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to refrain from judging others and instead focus on praying for a ministry that is unflinchingly committed to God. Additionally, the preacher warns against false apostles and the dangers of criticism, urging believers to be cautious and remain faithful to the foundation laid by wise builders like Paul.
Servanthood - Know Your Calling
By Chuck Smith1.1K43:51ServanthoodDEU 30:1NEH 1:6PSA 139:23PRO 3:5JHN 6:681CO 9:162CO 13:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Nehemiah and the challenges he faced in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah was deeply moved by the condition of the city and had a burden to do something about it. He wept, mourned, fasted, and prayed before God, showing his selflessness and dedication to the task. The speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing one's calling and not comparing oneself to others. The sermon also highlights the reaction of Jesus towards the lost and the need for shepherds to have compassion and broken hearts for their flock. The speaker concludes by mentioning Ezra's attempt to bring spiritual renewal to the city, but after 14 years, the situation is still dire and the people are demoralized.
The Fruit of Repentance
By Bill McLeod1.1K44:15RepentanceMAT 6:33JHN 1:33ACT 2:4ROM 1:161CO 9:161PE 1:221JN 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose of our faith. He highlights the power of the Bible as a weapon and encourages the congregation to rely on it for guidance. The preacher shares a testimony of a pastor who experienced revival in his church after realizing the need for a deeper faith. He emphasizes that faith is not just an intellectual belief, but a heart transformation that is demonstrated through actions. The sermon concludes with the reminder that true faith is shown through obedience to God's truth.
The Neglect of God's House
By Hoseah Wu1.1K59:16God's House1CH 17:1NEH 10:39MAT 6:33ROM 1:141CO 9:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of dedicating oneself to God's work. They explain that just as the hand represents work, God's work requires individuals who are willing to place themselves in His hands. The speaker references Romans 12, where Paul encourages believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices. The sermon also highlights the story of a woman who found a page from the Bible used as wrapping paper and was thrilled by it, prompting her to share the word with others. The speaker challenges the audience to examine their own commitment to the Lord and the gathering of His people. They also discuss the concept of being a watchman, referencing passages in Isaiah and other books.
K-516 a Prophetic Scenario (2 of 2)
By Art Katz1.1K46:36PropheticJER 1:9MAT 10:16MAT 16:24MAT 24:351CO 9:161CO 13:2EPH 4:15In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being reproached for going over the allotted time for his message. He explains that he received a note to finish his sermon in 45 minutes, but due to blurred vision, he misunderstood and believed it said 45 minutes. Despite facing criticism and being labeled as independent, the speaker prays for the message to be imbued with the spirit of truth and hopes that it will help others understand the call of God, the creative and prophetic word, and the obedience required as sons of God. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of death and resurrection in the church and in Israel's restoration, stating that just as Jesus had to taste death to birth the church, Israel too must go through death and resurrection.
Evangelists
By Anton Bosch87942:30EvangelistsMAT 6:33ACT 8:41CO 9:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching Christ as the central message. He contrasts this with the tendency of some evangelists to focus on themselves, their organizations, or other topics instead of Jesus. The speaker highlights the simplicity and power of the message of Christ, which is able to save and transform the lost. He also references the book of Romans as a comprehensive explanation of the gospel and emphasizes that the gospel should always be at the core of every ministry.
Coordinators Conf 1974 Pt1
By George Verwer5751:04:42LeadershipROM 10:141CO 9:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of organization in the complicated 20th century. He acknowledges that spiritual leaders may not be able to completely avoid organization due to the complexities of the modern world. The speaker shares his personal experiences of preaching to large crowds and the challenges of managing the response from attendees. He also highlights the need for discipline in our minds and encourages seeking God for solutions to problems. The sermon touches on the concept of the constant struggle between positive and negative forces in life, comparing it to the battle between the flesh and the spirit mentioned in the Bible.
Evangelism 05 Personal Evangelism
By Welcome Detweiler40536:52EZK 3:16MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ACT 20:26ROM 10:141CO 9:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of personal evangelism and the responsibility of every Christian to lead souls to Christ. He emphasizes that anyone can be a witness for Christ and start conversations that can help others find salvation. The preacher also shares an illustration of evangelizing an island with strict rules, highlighting the need to make choices and prioritize individual souls. He concludes by inviting anyone who is not yet saved to accept Jesus as their Savior and offers to read and explain the scriptures to them. The sermon is based on the biblical passage from Ezekiel 3:16 and references John 3:16.
Urgent - Powerful Points Calling America Back to God
By Shane Idleman1343:55RevivalRepentance2CH 7:14JER 20:9MAT 5:13ROM 12:21CO 9:16GAL 6:9EPH 6:102TI 4:2HEB 12:1JAS 1:12Shane Idleman passionately calls America back to God, emphasizing the urgent need for repentance and the church's role in preaching the truth of the Gospel without compromise. He warns against the dangers of a culture that has drifted from God, urging believers to stand firm in their faith and to be bold in sharing the message of Christ, even in the face of opposition. Idleman highlights the importance of self-discipline in the Christian life, encouraging believers to run the race of faith with purpose and to remain steadfast in their calling, regardless of societal pressures. He draws parallels between the struggles of modern believers and the challenges faced by biblical figures like Jeremiah and Paul, reminding the church of its mission to be salt and light in a dark world. Ultimately, he calls for a revival rooted in genuine repentance and a return to biblical truths.
Calling America Back to God
By Shane Idleman1243:02FaithfulnessRepentance2CH 7:14JER 20:9MAT 5:13ROM 12:21CO 9:16GAL 6:92TI 4:2HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 5:8Shane Idleman passionately calls America back to God, emphasizing the urgent need for repentance and the church's role in preaching the truth of the Gospel. He warns that without a return to biblical principles, revival will not occur, and stresses that true ministry should not be motivated by financial gain but by a genuine calling to serve. Idleman highlights the importance of self-discipline in the Christian life, urging believers to run the race of faith with purpose and to remain steadfast in their commitment to God amidst cultural pressures. He draws parallels between the struggles of modern believers and the challenges faced by biblical figures, encouraging a bold stand for truth in a world that often opposes it. Ultimately, he reassures that God is with His people, even in trials, and calls for a collective return to faith and righteousness.
Ezekiel 3:17
By Chuck Smith0Warning the WickedResponsibility of BelieversEZK 3:17MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 20:26ROM 10:141CO 9:162TI 4:2JAS 4:171PE 2:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the role of believers as watchmen, drawing from Ezekiel 3:17, where God calls Ezekiel to warn Israel of their wickedness. He highlights that the responsibility of Christians is to hear God's word and share it, not to convert others, as that is the work of the Holy Spirit. Smith encourages believers to recognize their duty to serve God and warn others of the consequences of sin, asserting that delivering the message is fulfilling their responsibility. He reassures that even if people mock or dismiss the warning, the truth will remain with them. Ultimately, serving God is not optional but a divine mandate for all Christians.
The Heavy Responsibility of Sheep-Feeding
By A.W. Tozer0ShepherdingResponsiveness in Preaching2SA 12:7EZK 34:2MAT 24:45ACT 20:281CO 9:162TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 3:11PE 5:2REV 2:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the heavy responsibility of preaching, highlighting that true shepherds must address the specific needs of their congregation rather than delivering generic messages. He critiques the approach of indiscriminately applying biblical teachings without considering the unique circumstances of the listeners, likening it to giving the same medicine to all patients. Tozer illustrates this by referencing the New Testament epistles and the prophetic writings, which were crafted in response to particular situations. He underscores the importance of the Holy Spirit's guidance in preaching, as demonstrated by Nathan's confrontation of David, which led to genuine repentance. The sermon calls for preachers to be attentive to the specific needs of their flock to effectively minister God's Word.
Reverence for God's Word
By Octavius Winslow0Faithfulness in MinistryReverence for God's Word2CH 18:13PSA 19:10PSA 119:105AMO 3:8MAT 4:41CO 9:162TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 2:2Octavius Winslow emphasizes the importance of reverence for God's Word through the example of Micaiah, a faithful prophet who refused to compromise his message for the sake of pleasing King Ahab. Micaiah's unwavering commitment to speak only what God commanded serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility of ministers and believers alike to uphold the truth of Scripture without dilution or alteration. Winslow calls for a deepened reverence for God's Word, urging believers to trust in its divine authority and to let it guide their lives. He highlights the necessity of preaching the pure Gospel and warns against the dangers of human teachings that stray from biblical truth. Ultimately, the sermon encourages a heartfelt commitment to live by and proclaim the Word of God.
Introduction: The Call to the Ministry
By Chuck Smith0Commitment in MinistryDivine CallingJER 20:9MRK 10:42JHN 13:121CO 9:16COL 3:172TI 2:15HEB 5:41PE 2:211PE 4:12Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of a divine calling in ministry, asserting that true ministry is not a profession but a calling from God. He shares personal experiences of challenges faced in his own ministry journey, highlighting the necessity of commitment to both God and His Word. Smith encourages ministers to serve others selflessly, reflecting on Jesus' example of humility and service. He warns against seeking human approval and stresses the importance of maintaining a heart of service, doing all things as unto the Lord. Ultimately, he calls for a deep commitment to the Scriptures, as they are the foundation of effective ministry.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For though I preach the Gospel - I have cause of glorying that I preach the Gospel free of all charges to you; but I cannot glory in being a preacher of the Gospel, because I am not such either by my own skill or power. I have received both the office, and the grace by which I execute the office, from God. I have not only his authority to preach, but that authority obliges me to preach; and if I did not, I should endanger my salvation: yea, wo is unto me, if I preach not the Gospel. As every genuine preacher receives his commission from God alone, it is God alone who can take it away. Wo to that man who runs when God has not sent him; and wo to him who refuses to run, or who ceases to run, when God has sent him.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
though I preach . . . I have nothing to glory of--that is, If I preach the Gospel, and do so not gratuitously, I have no matter for "glorying." For the "necessity" that is laid on me to preach (compare Jer 20:9, and the case of Jonah) does away with ground for "glorying." The sole ground for the latter that I have, is my preaching without charge (Co1 9:18): since there is no necessity laid on me as to the latter, it is my voluntary act for the Gospel's sake.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For if I do this thing willingly,.... That is, not freely and without receiving anything for preaching, without seeking any temporal profits and advantages; nor in pure love to Christ, and the good of souls, without any fear of punishment, or hope of reward; but the apostle supposes a case which was not, and his sense is, that supposing no necessity had been laid upon him, or any injunction or command given him to preach the Gospel, but he had entered on it without any obligation upon him, then, says he, I have a reward; or should have one, or might expect one; so the Jews (q) say, that a reward is given to him, who does anything unbidden: but if against my will, or unwillingly, a dispensation of the Gospel is committed to me; which was his case; the Gospel was committed to his trust, as anything is to the trust and charge of a steward by his lord, who is obliged to take care of it, and is accountable for it, and of whom faithfulness is required; he did not undertake this economy, or dispensation of the Gospel of himself, of his own mind and will, but it was enjoined him by one that had the command over him, and could and did oblige him to take the charge of it; though he made him willing, as well as able to do it: and therefore since this was the case, that it was not at his own option whether he would preach the Gospel or not, but he was obliged to it by one, that had a superior power and influence over him; hence, though he performed it ever so well, and with never so much faithfulness and integrity, he asks in the following verse, (q) Maimon. apud Hammond in loc.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:16 compelled by God to do it: Acts 22:14-15; 26:16-18.