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1
The Reward is the Sacrifice
Several commentators explain that Paul's "reward" was the very act of preaching the gospel for free. His prize was the ability to say he didn't use his right to be paid, which proved his genuine love for the Corinthians and the gospel. In this sense, his willing sacrifice was its own reward and his reason for 'boasting.'
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Book Overview
1 Corinthians
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Commentaries
7
Albert Barnes
On 1 Corinthians 9:17
18th Century
Theologian
For if I do this thing willingly. If I preach so as to show that my heart is in it, that I am not compelled. If I pursue such a course as …
AT Robertson
On 1 Corinthians 9:17
Of mine own will (εκων)
--not of mine own will (ακων). Both common adjectives, but only here in N.T. save …
Charles Ellicott
On 1 Corinthians 9:17
19th Century
Bishop
For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward. The previous words, Indeed, woe is unto me if I preach not the gos…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On 1 Corinthians 9:17
It is true that there is reward or pay in preaching, but only if done without pay. Paul states the alternatives. If he preaches freely, voluntarily…
John Calvin
On 1 Corinthians 9:17
16th Century
Theologian
For if I do this thing willingly: here, reward means what the Latins call operae pretium (recompense for labor), and wha…
John Gill
On 1 Corinthians 9:17
17th Century
Pastor
For if I do this thing willingly
That is, not freely and without receiving anything for preaching, without seeking a…
Matthew Henry
On 1 Corinthians 9:15–23
17th Century
Minister
It is the glory of a minister to deny himself, so that he may serve Christ and save souls. But when a minister gives up his right for the sake of t…