Verse
Context
Paul the Servant to All
21To those without the law I became like one without the law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the law.22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
To the weak became I as weak - Those who were conscientiously scrupulous, even in respect to lawful things. I am made all things to all men - I assumed every shape and form consistent with innocency and perfect integrity; giving up my own will, my own way, my own ease, my own pleasure, and my own profit, that I might save the souls of all. Let those who plead for the system of accommodation on the example of St. Paul, attend to the end he had in view, and the manner in which he pursued that end. It was not to get money, influence, or honor, but to save Souls! It was not to get ease but to increase his labors. It was not to save his life, but rather that it should be a sacrifice for the good of immortal souls! A parallel saying to this of St. Paul has been quoted from Achilles Tatius, lib. v., cap. xix., where Clitophon says, on having received a letter from Leucippe: Τουτοις εντυχων παντα εγινομην ὁμου, ανεφλεγομην, ωχριων, εθαυμαζον, ηπιστουν, εχαιρον, ηχθομην· "When I read the contents, I became all things at once; I was inflamed, I grew pale, I was struck with wonder; I doubted, I rejoiced, became sad." The same form of speech is frequent among Greek writers. I think this casts some light on the apostle's meaning. That I might by all means save some - On this clause there are some very important readings found in the MSS. and versions. Instead of παντως τινας σωσω, that I might by all means save some; παντας σωσω, that I might save all, is the reading of DEFG, Syriac, Vulgate, Ethiopic, all the Itala, and several of the fathers. This reading Bishop Pearce prefers, because it is more agreeable to St. Paul's meaning here, and exactly agrees with what he says, Co1 10:33, and makes his design more extensive and noble. Wakefield also prefers this reading.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
gain the weak--that is, establish, instead of being a stumbling-block to inexperienced Christians (Co1 8:7) Rom 14:1, "Weak in the faith." ALFORD thinks the "weak" are not Christians at all, for these have been already "won"; but those outside the Church, who are yet "without strength" to believe (Rom 5:6). But when "weak" Christians are by the condescending love of stronger brethren kept from falling from faith, they are well said to be "gained" or won. by all means . . . some--The gain of even "some" is worth the expenditure of "all means." He conformed himself to the feelings of each in the several classes, that out of them all he might gain some.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And this I do for the Gospel's sake,.... The Alexandrian copy and some others read, "all things I do", &c. and so the Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions; that is, he became all things to all men, and so and so to different persons; not for his own sake, for his own temporal advantage, or to curry favour with men; not for the sake of gaining wealth, or honour and applause to himself, but for the spread of the Gospel, and its greater usefulness among men: to which he adds, that I might be partaker thereof with you; meaning either the fruit of the Gospel, the conversion and salvation of sinners, which would be matter of joy both to him and them; or the blessings of grace and eternal life, which the Gospel reveals and promises, which he desired to enjoy in common with others, not only with the Corinthians, for the word "you" is not in the original text, but with Jews and Gentiles; with men of all sorts, who may be gained over to Christ, and saved by him, through the ministry of the word.
Paul the Servant to All
21To those without the law I became like one without the law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the law.22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Biographies) Athanasius
By John Piper4.6K1:21:05ROM 12:21CO 1:181CO 9:222CO 4:42TI 1:7HEB 13:71PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel in a way that challenges and transforms people's understanding. He cautions against simply presenting the basic truths of Christianity without addressing the fallen human mind's limitations. The speaker highlights several key principles, including God's sovereignty over all things, the accountability of all people before Him, and the inability of humans to come to Christ on their own. He also emphasizes the need to defend and explain doctrine for the sake of the gospel and to aim at creating biblical categories of thought that may not be readily understood by the current generation.
Road to Reality - When We Have Failed, What Next? - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan2.5K25:58FailureMAT 16:24MRK 8:35JHN 20:21ACT 17:6ROM 8:291CO 9:22GAL 2:20In this sermon, K. P. Johannon discusses the importance of being concerned for the lost world and sharing the message of Jesus. He emphasizes that the greatest enemy is not the devil, but our own self-centeredness, and that Jesus came to set us free from this. Johannon shares the story of Adoniram Judson, a missionary who faced immense hardships and loss, yet remained committed to his work of translating the Bible and preaching in a hostile Buddhist land. The sermon encourages listeners to persevere in their faith and continue sharing the gospel, even in the face of failure and adversity.
How to Get a Canadian to Love You (Comedy)
By George Verwer2.0K01:31Cultural ConnectionHumility in Ministry1CO 9:22PHP 2:3George Verwer shares a humorous and engaging experience from a youth meeting in Vancouver, where he connected with Canadian youth by embracing his identity as an American and using humor to break down barriers. He recounts how a lively atmosphere, including a rock and roll song, set the stage for a powerful message that led to many teenagers recommitting their lives to Christ. Verwer emphasizes the importance of authenticity and humility in building relationships, even across cultural divides, and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to inspire young people despite his own insecurities.
Is It Ok to Have a Beer as a Christian?
By Bob Jennings1.9K04:45MAT 5:13ROM 12:21CO 9:22COL 4:51PE 3:15This sermon discusses the balance between being 'all things to all men' and maintaining biblical principles, particularly in the context of engaging in activities like pub theology or going to bars for Bible studies. It explores the tension between reaching out to others in unconventional ways while also upholding personal convictions and not compromising one's faith. The story shared highlights the importance of being a representative of Christ in every situation, showing kindness and love while not conforming to sinful behaviors.
The Double Portion / the Baptism of the Spirit
By William P. Nicholson1.7K57:002KI 2:1JER 17:5MAT 6:33MAT 16:24ROM 10:91CO 1:251CO 9:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being chosen by God to do His work, even if one feels insignificant or weak. He uses the analogy of wearing multiple layers of animal skins to illustrate the weight and responsibility of preaching the word of God. The preacher also highlights the need for a burning enthusiasm for God, rather than just a superficial love for Him. He warns against being complacent in one's faith and encourages listeners to seek a double portion of God's blessings through obedience and a willingness to be used by Him.
Qualifications for Spiritual Leadership - Part 2
By Stephen Kaung1.4K35:26Spiritual LeadershipEXO 4:13JDG 4:4MAT 25:21LUK 14:281CO 9:22GAL 2:201JN 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the qualities of a true leader. He highlights the importance of brokenness and humility in leadership, contrasting it with the ambition and self-centeredness often seen in leaders. The speaker also emphasizes the need for leaders to inspire and work with others, sharing their burdens and vision. He uses the example of Deborah in the Old Testament as a powerful illustration of a leader who inspired and led her people to victory. The sermon concludes with a warning against seeking personal success and ambition, instead urging leaders to seek God's approval and blessing.
Just Following Jesus (P3)
By K.P. Yohannan1.1K24:52Following JesusMAT 6:33LUK 10:27LUK 19:10JHN 13:341CO 9:22HEB 5:81JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living as Jesus lived. He references Matthew's Gospel chapter nine, highlighting Jesus' compassion for the suffering and abused. The speaker challenges the audience to have a heart that breaks for those in need, such as the people in Burma, Iraq, India, and Haiti. He also discusses Jesus' passion for the lost and shares a testimony of a film team that witnessed many people coming to Christ in a Muslim-populated area. The speaker encourages listeners to pray and actively participate in reaching the lost world.
I Love You
By Jack Hyles93336:58PRO 13:24HOS 11:4ROM 6:231CO 9:22EPH 5:192TI 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preachers who love their people enough to discipline them when they are in sin. He uses the metaphor of taking cords and whipping the people to correct their behavior. He also mentions the idea of tying the cords to the muzzle and pulling the people towards God's will. The preacher acknowledges the challenges of belonging to a big church and not being able to personally visit everyone. He also mentions a sweet memory of shaking hands with an elderly woman who never thought she would have the opportunity. The sermon is based on a verse from the book of Hosea where God speaks to his people and uses the metaphor of whipping them to correct their behavior. The preacher warns against using worldly language or music and encourages the congregation to speak and sing like Christians should. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for discipline and obedience in the Christian life.
Why Do You Do What You Do With Your Time?
By Tim Conway85206:35ROM 14:211CO 9:221CO 10:311CO 16:14GAL 5:16COL 3:171PE 3:31JN 4:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of examining our motives in all aspects of life, including how we dress, use our time, spend money, and make decisions. It challenges listeners to align their actions with God's Word and to ensure that their motives are driven by a desire to glorify God and love others, rather than by worldly desires or selfish pleasures. The message encourages a lifestyle of thoughtful consideration and intentional choices that reflect a heart devoted to God.
Church History - the Early Church Part 2 (100-312)
By David Guzik80940:04MAT 28:191CO 9:22In this sermon, the speaker begins by reciting the Apostle's Creed, emphasizing the importance of believing in the one true God and Jesus Christ as His only Son. The speaker highlights the significance of Jesus being conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, as well as His suffering under Pontius Pilate and crucifixion. The speaker also discusses the importance of staying true to the message of the Bible and the challenges of relating to people in their daily lives without compromising the Gospel. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the work of God is never far from ruin, but the spread of the Gospel continues globally.
Onto Jerusalem
By Steve Gallagher65752:10PSA 37:23PRO 16:9JER 29:11ACT 21:14ACT 22:14ROM 8:281CO 9:22JAS 4:15This sermon delves into the events in Acts 21 and 22, focusing on Paul's journey to Jerusalem, the tensions between Jews and Gentiles, and the unfolding of God's will in Paul's life despite challenges and misunderstandings. It highlights the importance of staying in God's will and the profound impact of being in His presence.
Trends in British Church No1 2nd Jan 84
By George Verwer45948:20MissionsPSA 90:12MAT 28:19ACT 17:30ROM 14:11CO 9:22EPH 4:31TH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker shares about a powerful experience they had during a meeting where many people stood up to recommit their lives to Jesus, including middle-aged and older individuals. The speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the vision and informing others about the teachings of Jesus. They also discuss the need for a system to keep track of important information, such as a loose-leaf notebook. The sermon touches on the topic of handling doctrinal differences and the significance of understanding present trends in the British Church. The speaker encourages the audience to take notes and highlights the importance of history in the Bible.
Doulosministry March 1982
By George Verwer38833:21MissionsPRO 11:30MAT 28:19ACT 1:81CO 9:22EPH 4:11COL 4:52TI 2:15In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience with a close friend who showed him the incredible capabilities of a computer. He also mentions the success of the book exhibition ministry, which has planted Christian books in Mexico. Despite a fire destroying equipment in India, the speaker emphasizes that there is still a significant amount of literature, films, and projectors spread throughout the country. The use of films and slides in evangelism is highlighted as an effective tool for reaching tens of thousands of people with the gospel.
Why God Used D. L. Moody
By R.A. Torrey2Power Of PrayerSurrender to GodPSA 62:11MAT 6:24ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 9:22EPH 5:181TH 5:17JAS 4:10R.A. Torrey emphasizes the reasons why God used D. L. Moody so powerfully, highlighting Moody's complete surrender to God, his fervent prayer life, and his deep commitment to studying the Bible. Torrey notes that Moody's humility, freedom from the love of money, and his passionate desire for the salvation of souls were key factors in his effectiveness as a preacher. He also points out that Moody's clear experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit was crucial to his ministry. Ultimately, Torrey encourages listeners to emulate Moody's example to be used by God in their own lives.
School Life and Pastorate
By Martin Knapp1PRO 11:30MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 15:10ACT 20:24ROM 10:141CO 9:221TH 2:8JAS 5:201PE 4:8Martin Knapp emphasizes the importance of prioritizing soul-saving over acquiring knowledge, drawing inspiration from the spirit of true Methodism and the Gospel. He shares the story of a young man, Weber, who kept salvation first in his life, leading to impactful evangelistic work even during his school days. Weber's independence of surroundings, persistence in personal work, and love for laboring among the outcasts and lowly serve as valuable lessons for young converts and students. Despite facing opposition and challenges, Weber's faith, persistence, and prevailing prayer led to numerous conversions and impactful ministry work, showcasing the power of prioritizing soul-saving.
Can God Use Rock Music?
By Keith Green11SA 16:7PRO 4:23MAT 15:18ROM 14:161CO 8:91CO 9:221CO 10:31GAL 5:13COL 3:171TH 5:21Keith Green addresses the controversial topic of using rock music in Christian ministry, sharing his personal struggles and insights on the matter. He discusses the differing opinions within the Christian community regarding the use of rock music for evangelism and worship, emphasizing the importance of examining one's motives and heart condition. Green highlights the need for Christians to surpass worldly standards and focus on glorifying God with pure intentions, rather than seeking self-exaltation. He challenges the notion of labeling music as inherently 'evil,' stressing that it is the heart behind the music that determines its impact.
St. Paul's Love to His Enemies Perfect in Kind.
By Daniel Steele0DEU 30:6MAT 5:43ROM 9:11CO 9:222CO 12:15EPH 5:25PHP 1:8COL 1:241TH 2:71TI 2:1Daniel Steele preaches on the concept of Christian perfection, emphasizing that love for one's enemies is the essence and evidence of Christian perfection, as demonstrated by Paul's sacrificial love towards his foes, even to the point of being willing to give up his own life for them. Paul's love reflects divine love, walking the earth incarnated in human form, and exemplifying perfect love by surrendering his life for others. His universal love extends to enemies, fellow believers, spiritual infants, backsliders, and even strangers, showcasing a selfless and sacrificial love that mirrors Christ's love for the church.
Ye the Branches
By Andrew Murray0PSA 6:2ISA 1:5EZK 16:2JHN 6:44ROM 3:19ROM 5:6ROM 7:141CO 1:271CO 9:22The preacher delves into the meaning of 'asthenes,' which signifies a state of helplessness, both physically and spiritually. This term describes the incapacity to produce results and the powerlessness to do or be something. The sermon emphasizes how humanity, in its sinful state, is utterly devoid of strength to save itself, highlighting the need for a strong Savior. Through various Bible verses, the preacher illustrates how Christ's death for the ungodly occurred while we were still helpless, underscoring our powerlessness to obtain justification by works.
An Analogy and the Conclusion
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0ACT 16:31ROM 3:23ROM 8:21CO 9:222CO 12:9EPH 3:161JN 3:21Lewis Sperry Chafer preaches about the distinct forms of salvation presented in the Bible, focusing on deliverance from the guilt and penalty of sin and from the power of sin. The analogy between these two aspects of salvation is examined in five particulars, highlighting the estate of those in need of salvation, the divine objective and ideal, the role of God in salvation, the necessity of the cross for salvation, and the importance of faith in both aspects of salvation. Chafer emphasizes the continuous dependence on God's power and grace for victory over sin and the need for a life lived in the power of the Spirit.
Obedience to the Missionary Vision
By Richard W. Abberley0PRO 29:18MAT 28:19ACT 1:81CO 9:22PHP 2:3Richard W. Abberley preaches about Paul's vision of a glorious Christ and a world redeemed by His blood, emphasizing the importance of having a vision for the world-wide reign of God's Messiah. The sermon highlights the potential of American civilization and its type of religion to dominate the religions of the world, stressing the significance of America's institutions and ideals in shaping the future. The sermon also addresses the need to recognize and address the spiritual and moral needs of America, focusing on the importance of evangelizing cities and reaching out to the diverse foreign population in the country.
Count Zinzendorf
By David Smithers0MRK 16:15JHN 14:15ACT 2:42ROM 12:101CO 9:22PHP 3:8COL 4:21PE 4:81JN 4:19REV 2:4David Smithers preaches about Count Zinzendorf's passionate love for Jesus, emphasizing his relentless pursuit of Christ's presence and his life motto of having one passion - Jesus only. Zinzendorf's prayer life was marked by prevailing prayer and a dedication to establishing circles for prayer, leading to the influential Moravian revival of 1727. His deep love for Jesus fueled his passion for evangelism, inspiring the Moravian Brotherhood to embrace missions with self-denial, sacrifice, and obedience, motivated by a desire to share the gospel and see souls saved.
Billy Nicholson - the Irish Whitefield
By Leonard Ravenhill0Overcoming FearEvangelismMAT 28:191CO 9:22Leonard Ravenhill recounts the life and ministry of W.P. Nicholson, an Irish evangelist who overcame his fear of public opinion during a street meeting in Bangor, Northern Ireland. Initially hesitant and mocked, Nicholson experienced a transformative moment of surrender to God, leading him to become a passionate and fearless preacher. His unique style and fervent prayers drew many to Christ, including individuals like Andy Mays, who later became a minister himself. Nicholson's commitment to evangelism and his ability to connect with people emotionally made him a powerful figure in the Christian community. His legacy continues to inspire many in their faith journeys.
Venomous Gospel Preachers
By Ray Comfort0EXO 20:4MRK 9:39ROM 1:161CO 9:22PHP 1:18COL 4:51PE 3:15Ray Comfort addresses the controversies surrounding Hollywood movies like 'The Ten Commandments' and 'The Passion of the Christ,' emphasizing the importance of focusing on the truth of the Gospel amidst artistic liberties taken in these films. He challenges Christians to use these movies as opportunities to share the message of salvation rather than getting caught up in criticisms. Drawing from Paul's attitude in Philippians, he encourages rejoicing in the preaching of Christ even when accompanied by imperfections or controversies.
The Practicability of Something Being
By William Carey0ISA 60:9ACT 20:241CO 9:22COL 3:232TI 4:5William Carey preaches about the impediments in carrying the gospel among the heathen, addressing concerns such as distance, barbarous living conditions, danger, language barriers, and difficulty in procuring necessities. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming these obstacles through navigation, love for souls, and the spread of the gospel for the civilization and salvation of all people. Carey encourages missionaries to be devoted, courageous, patient, and willing to endure hardships, emphasizing the need for piety, orthodoxy, and a spirit of mission. He highlights the significance of learning languages, cultivating friendships, and relying on the Holy Spirit for success in spreading the gospel to unreached areas.
Life's Magnificent Obsession
By C. William Fisher0PRO 11:30PRO 24:11MAT 28:19ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 9:221TH 2:8JAS 5:20JUD 1:23C. William Fisher preaches about the urgent and inescapable preoccupation with the supreme idea of soul winning, emphasizing that it is life's supreme endeavor enabling participation in God's redemptive purpose. He highlights the total response required, the divine assistance needed, and the command from Christ to go and make disciples. Fisher stresses the importance of being magnificently obsessed with winning souls to Christ, as it is the most urgent and inescapable endeavor of the Christian life.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
To the weak became I as weak - Those who were conscientiously scrupulous, even in respect to lawful things. I am made all things to all men - I assumed every shape and form consistent with innocency and perfect integrity; giving up my own will, my own way, my own ease, my own pleasure, and my own profit, that I might save the souls of all. Let those who plead for the system of accommodation on the example of St. Paul, attend to the end he had in view, and the manner in which he pursued that end. It was not to get money, influence, or honor, but to save Souls! It was not to get ease but to increase his labors. It was not to save his life, but rather that it should be a sacrifice for the good of immortal souls! A parallel saying to this of St. Paul has been quoted from Achilles Tatius, lib. v., cap. xix., where Clitophon says, on having received a letter from Leucippe: Τουτοις εντυχων παντα εγινομην ὁμου, ανεφλεγομην, ωχριων, εθαυμαζον, ηπιστουν, εχαιρον, ηχθομην· "When I read the contents, I became all things at once; I was inflamed, I grew pale, I was struck with wonder; I doubted, I rejoiced, became sad." The same form of speech is frequent among Greek writers. I think this casts some light on the apostle's meaning. That I might by all means save some - On this clause there are some very important readings found in the MSS. and versions. Instead of παντως τινας σωσω, that I might by all means save some; παντας σωσω, that I might save all, is the reading of DEFG, Syriac, Vulgate, Ethiopic, all the Itala, and several of the fathers. This reading Bishop Pearce prefers, because it is more agreeable to St. Paul's meaning here, and exactly agrees with what he says, Co1 10:33, and makes his design more extensive and noble. Wakefield also prefers this reading.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
gain the weak--that is, establish, instead of being a stumbling-block to inexperienced Christians (Co1 8:7) Rom 14:1, "Weak in the faith." ALFORD thinks the "weak" are not Christians at all, for these have been already "won"; but those outside the Church, who are yet "without strength" to believe (Rom 5:6). But when "weak" Christians are by the condescending love of stronger brethren kept from falling from faith, they are well said to be "gained" or won. by all means . . . some--The gain of even "some" is worth the expenditure of "all means." He conformed himself to the feelings of each in the several classes, that out of them all he might gain some.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And this I do for the Gospel's sake,.... The Alexandrian copy and some others read, "all things I do", &c. and so the Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions; that is, he became all things to all men, and so and so to different persons; not for his own sake, for his own temporal advantage, or to curry favour with men; not for the sake of gaining wealth, or honour and applause to himself, but for the spread of the Gospel, and its greater usefulness among men: to which he adds, that I might be partaker thereof with you; meaning either the fruit of the Gospel, the conversion and salvation of sinners, which would be matter of joy both to him and them; or the blessings of grace and eternal life, which the Gospel reveals and promises, which he desired to enjoy in common with others, not only with the Corinthians, for the word "you" is not in the original text, but with Jews and Gentiles; with men of all sorts, who may be gained over to Christ, and saved by him, through the ministry of the word.