We close out our study of 1 Corinthians 9, and Paul’s defense of his authority, with this carnal church. The Corinthians questioned his apostleship, and his motives. He responded by reminding them that he did not hold them accountable for his financial needs, but worked with Aquila and Priscilla, as tentmakers. Acts 18:1-3
Being the apostle to the Gentiles, Paul focused his attention on taking on the culture of whatever group he was with, that by all means he might save some. V.22
Ultimately, he knew that he was accountable to Christ. His reward would be an incorruptible crown, by keeping his body in subjection and living a life of temperance. V.24-27
There are 5 major rewards or Crowns given in scripture, that every believer is eligible for.
The Incorruptible Crown, bestowed upon all believers who live lives of personal temperance, not bringing reproach to Christ by living lives of excess, indulgence, and intemperance.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
The Crown of Rejoicing, bestowed upon all believers who share the silver of the price of redemption to those without Christ. 1 Thessalonians 2:19
The Crown of Righteousness, bestowed upon all believers who earnestly look for the glorious appearing of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
2 Timothy 4:7-8
The Crown of Life, bestowed upon all believers who suffer martyrdom, or who die to self for the sake of the gospel. James 1:12 & Revelation 2:10
The Crown of Glory, bestowed upon all believers who spend their lives shepherding people in the Word, teaching and discipling others. 1 Peter 5:1-4
Paul, and the apostle John both understood the gravity of giving account of their lives, when Christ appears. The judgment seat of Christ awaits us all.
Paul wrote:
Philippians 1:20-21: According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
2 Corinthians 5: 9-10: Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
John wrote:
1 John 2:28: And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
1 John 3:2-3: Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
These two great apostles kept the appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ, and our subsequent “reward” or “bema seat” judgment seat of Christ in the forefront of their thoughts. Looking for that blessed hope each day gives us the courage to face any and all of the struggles a day may bring. The Holy Spirit of God, indwelling us strengthens and comforts us through the trials of life.
We will begin chapter 10 next week, where Paul tackles the problem of submission in this most carnal of all churches.