1 Corinthians 9 22

1 Corinthians 9:22 kjv

To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.

1 Corinthians 9:22 nkjv

to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.

1 Corinthians 9:22 niv

To 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.

1 Corinthians 9:22 esv

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.

1 Corinthians 9:22 nlt

When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.

1 Corinthians 9 verses

1 Corinthians 9 22 Meaning

The Apostle Paul articulates his adaptable approach to ministry, explaining how he willingly adjusts his methods and freedoms, without compromising the Gospel truth, to effectively reach diverse groups of people. His ultimate goal is the salvation of souls, signifying a selfless devotion to evangelism and a strategic identification with various communities for the sake of winning them for Christ.

1 Corinthians 9 22 Context

First Corinthians chapter 9 forms part of Paul's extended defense of his apostolic authority and rights. Prior to verse 22, Paul addresses criticisms and questions about his ministry and his choice not to receive financial support from the Corinthian church. He argues that he has the right to be supported, just like other apostles or workers for the Gospel (1 Cor 9:1-14), but he voluntarily surrenders this right to make the Gospel more accessible and without charge (1 Cor 9:15-18). Verse 22 then extends this principle of self-denial and adaptability into the realm of evangelistic methodology. It fits into the broader context of Paul teaching the Corinthians about their liberties versus their responsibilities to one another, particularly concerning matters like eating meat offered to idols, where individual conscience and the edification of the community are paramount (1 Cor 8, 10). The "weak" in this specific context often refers to believers whose consciences are easily troubled or scandalized by practices they deem questionable, especially concerning dietary laws or idol-related customs, often rooted in Jewish scruples or new-believer sensitivities.

1 Corinthians 9 22 Word analysis

• To the weak (Greek: ἀσθενής, asthenes): Literally meaning "without strength," "feeble," or "sick." In this spiritual context, it primarily refers to those whose faith is not yet strong enough to handle Christian liberty without falling into sin, or whose consciences are highly sensitive or easily offended by actions that may be permissible for mature believers. This might include those scrupulous about eating meat offered to idols (as discussed in 1 Cor 8, 10) or those clinging to old legalistic practices.
• I became weak (Greek: ἐγενόμην ἀσθενής, egenomēn asthenes): Paul adopts the perspective and posture of the weak, not that he actually becomes spiritually or morally weak. It means he abstains from his liberties or exercises restraint in his actions (e.g., refraining from certain foods or practices) so as not to cause a "weak" brother or sister to stumble. This is an act of empathic condescension and self-limitation, putting another's spiritual well-being above his own rights or preferences.
• that I might win the weak (Greek: ἵνα τοὺς ἀσθενεῖς κερδήσω, hina tous asthenes kerdēsō): The purpose of his self-imposed weakness is to "gain" or "acquire" them. "Winning" here implies drawing them to faith, confirming them in it, or preventing them from spiritual harm or falling away. It highlights the evangelistic and pastoral intent behind his flexibility.
• I have become all things (Greek: γέγονα τὰ πάντα, gegone ta panta): This powerful phrase signifies Paul's extraordinary adaptability and versatility in ministry. "All things" implies a wide range of methodologies, cultural engagements, and personal sacrifices. It speaks to his willingness to cross social, cultural, and religious barriers, adapting his approach to various audiences.
• to all people (Greek: πᾶσιν, pasin): Reinforces the universal scope of his mission. Paul's evangelistic efforts were not confined to one specific group, but encompassed diverse segments of humanity—Jews, Gentiles, the strong, the weak, men, women, slaves, free.
• that by all means (Greek: ἵνα πάντως, hina pantōs): Expresses a profound determination and earnestness. "By all means" means by every possible strategy, every legitimate avenue, every effort necessary, short of compromising the truth of the Gospel (as explicitly stated in 1 Cor 9:21).
• I might save some (Greek: τινὰς σώσω, tinas sōsō): This is the ultimate, overriding objective. "Save" here means spiritual salvation—being brought into a right relationship with God through Christ. The word "some" is not meant to limit God's power or grace but reflects the reality that not everyone will respond to the Gospel. Paul's ambition is simply to be an effective instrument in God's saving work for any who would believe.

• "To the weak I became weak... that I might win the weak": This phrase underscores Paul's profound empathy and strategic identification. He descends to their perceived level of faith or understanding, relinquishing personal freedoms (such as specific dietary choices) so that the vulnerable are not led astray. This is about prioritizing the edification and salvation of others above personal rights. It demonstrates pastoral care coupled with an evangelistic drive.
• "I have become all things to all people... that by all means I might save some": This encompasses Paul's overarching missionary principle. It highlights the principle of contextualization without capitulation. Paul adapts his non-essential behaviors and presentations (the "all things") to effectively communicate the unchangeable Gospel message. The core truth is preserved, but the methods are flexible. The motivation ("that by all means") is zeal for evangelism, and the desired outcome ("I might save some") is the spiritual redemption of individuals, acknowledging that while his effort is maximal, salvation is ultimately God's work and not universally accepted by all hearers. This demonstrates ultimate Gospel-centeredness.

1 Corinthians 9 22 Bonus section

Paul's phrase "I have become all things to all people" needs to be read in light of the preceding verse, 1 Cor 9:21, where he clarifies that he is "not outside the law of God but under the law of Christ." This crucial boundary emphasizes that Paul's flexibility never crosses into moral compromise or doctrinal relativism. His adaptation is always within the ethical framework of Christ's teachings and for the advancement of His kingdom. This ethical parameter ensures that the pursuit of reaching people does not justify unrighteous behavior or the watering down of divine truth. It's a pragmatic wisdom, rooted in love and divine law, aimed at maximal Gospel effectiveness.

1 Corinthians 9 22 Commentary

In 1 Corinthians 9:22, Paul presents a powerful summary of his missional philosophy: a strategic adaptation of personal freedom for the sake of the Gospel. His approach is not one of relativism, but of empathy and evangelistic wisdom. For the "weak," often referring to believers with sensitive consciences, particularly regarding Jewish laws or cultural practices, Paul restricts his own legitimate liberties. This could mean abstaining from certain foods or customs to avoid causing them to stumble or be alienated. This deliberate condescension ensures that his freedom in Christ does not become an obstacle to another's faith development. Beyond this specific group, Paul extends this principle: he "becomes all things to all people." This means he skillfully navigates different cultures, social strata, and personal preferences, tailoring his presentation and non-moral behaviors to best connect with his diverse audience. He becomes "as a Jew to Jews," and "as one outside the Law to those outside the Law," yet always remaining "under the law of Christ" (v. 20-21). This careful balance shows his unyielding commitment to Gospel truth, even while his methods are fluid. The singular, fervent goal ("that by all means") underlying all this self-sacrifice and flexibility is the salvation of souls ("I might save some"). Paul's ministry is singularly focused on drawing people to Christ, willing to expend every ounce of energy and every personal right to see at least some come to know the Lord. His example calls believers to radical selflessness and shrewd wisdom in proclaiming the unchanging Gospel in an ever-changing world.
Example: A Christian worker in a different culture might learn the local language, adopt modest local dress, or respect local customs around hospitality, not because these things are biblical commands, but because doing so reduces barriers to communication and demonstrates love, opening doors for Gospel conversations. Another example: a strong believer with freedom to eat certain foods might choose to abstain when with a new convert who still struggles with convictions from their past, not to compromise their own liberty but to protect the weaker brother from stumbling.