1 Corinthians 9 20

1 Corinthians 9:20 kjv

And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;

1 Corinthians 9:20 nkjv

and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law;

1 Corinthians 9:20 niv

To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law.

1 Corinthians 9:20 esv

To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law.

1 Corinthians 9:20 nlt

When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law.

1 Corinthians 9 verses

1 Corinthians 9 20 Meaning

Paul explains his approach to evangelism by adapting himself to various people. He emphasizes that this accommodation is done to win them for Christ, demonstrating a selfless concern for their salvation. It’s about effectively communicating the gospel in a way that resonates with different cultural backgrounds and viewpoints.

1 Corinthians 9 20 Context

This verse is part of a larger argument in 1 Corinthians chapter 9, where Paul defends his apostolic rights and his decision to forego financial support from the Corinthian church. He argues that while he has the right to be supported, he chooses not to exercise this right to avoid hindering the gospel. He asserts his freedom in Christ but willingly submits himself to Christ's law. He highlights his deliberate adaptation to different people – Jews, Gentiles, the weak – to win them for Christ. This passage emphasizes the importance of practical evangelism and sacrificial love in ministry, prioritizing the salvation of others above personal privilege or comfort.

1 Corinthians 9 20 Word Analysis

• To the Jews (Ellēnizin):
  • (ellēnizō) – Greek verb meaning "to act like a Greek" or "to speak Greek." In this context, it means behaving according to Jewish customs and practices, not living as a Gentile, but living as a Jew for Jews. Paul is referencing his behavior among Jews.
• I became as a Jew (hoioioudaios):
  • (hos hēuton hōs Ioudaios): "as myself as a Jew." Paul identifies with their specific cultural and religious identity when ministering to them.
• To those under the law (tous hupo nomon):
  • (tous hupo nomon): This refers to Jews who were living strictly under the Mosaic Law. Paul indicates he also conformed to their understanding and practice of the Law, without adding the legalistic burdens that some attached to it.
• I became as one under the law (hoion tōn upo nomon):
  • (hos hēuton hōs ton hupo nomon): As one who also lived under the Law (specifically the Mosaic Law), implying he conformed to its demands in a way that would be recognizable and acceptable to them.
• Though not being myself under the law (kōs mē ōn autos hupo nomos):
  • (kō an auto tōn hupo nomon mē ōn autos): This clarifies Paul's theological position. He is not legally bound to the Mosaic Law as a means of salvation because he is "under Christ." This is a crucial distinction; he is not reverting to law-keeping as a means of justification, but adopting a posture of accessibility.
• To Christ (Christō):
  • (Christō): The ultimate authority and Lord. His law is the law of love, grace, and the Spirit. Paul's subservience here is to Christ.

1 Corinthians 9 20 Bonus Section

This principle of "becoming all things" highlights the ongoing relevance of cultural sensitivity in missions and evangelism. It requires leaders to constantly assess how the message of the gospel can be communicated across diverse cultural landscapes without altering the essence of biblical truth. This strategic adaptation allows the transformative power of Christ to be understood and embraced by people from all walks of life. It echoes Jesus' statement, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few" (Matt 9:37), implying that a willingness to labor and adapt is crucial for reaching the full harvest. Paul’s method is a testament to the servant-hearted nature required of all who minister God’s Word.

1 Corinthians 9 20 Commentary

Paul's strategy for evangelism, as outlined in this verse, is one of radical contextualization and humility. He didn't impose his own cultural norms or expectations. Instead, he met people where they were, demonstrating a willingness to "become all things to all people." This wasn't about compromising the gospel's core message, but about making its delivery more effective. It was about bridging cultural gaps through empathetic understanding and adapting communication methods. This approach allowed him to build rapport and open doors for the gospel. He mirrors Christ's approach, who associated with sinners and publicans to save them. This reflects the profound truth that the messenger's willingness to embrace the recipient's world, without losing their own identity in Christ, is essential for fruitful evangelism.