1 Corinthians 9:18 Commentary and Bible Study

Paul looks a reward from his preaching the gospel, but it is certainly not a material reward. The opposite is the case, for he deliberately forfeits the support he is entitled to in order that he can present the gospel free of charge to those who hear him. His reward is the joy of serving Christ freely, and he will not let anyone take this reward from him. He accepts the support of the churches and is thankful for it, but he does not require it of them, or press it upon them as a duty. This is not the pattern for pastors to follow – he is very clear on that – but in his particular role as a pioneer preacher to the Gentiles, it is what he considers the wise thing to do.