“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. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with
them in its blessings.” (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)
As we look at our society, it seems these days that everyone wants to make a name for themselves. Many seek this through the use of the media. All around us we see millions seeking attention and fame. Some use violence and hateful rhetoric to get their names in the news even at the cost of their lives and the lives of others. Others want to be recognized and lauded for their works, looks, talents, or accomplishments. Our broadcast and cable TV networks are flooded award shows as well as reality programs that showcase people’s musical talents or beauty or physical strength. Most people seek that attention through social media touting themselves as influencers and leaders. It seems, therefore, that most people want praise, recognition, glory, and awards from others and are willing to go to great lengths to get it, some even to the point of changing their gender.
The Word of God teaches that the quest for self-glory is antithetical to the values of the Kingdom of God. The Apostle Paul lived by this teaching. He lived a life of humility. He was a preacher who traveled all over the Mediterranean world and dialogued with thousands leading many to faith in Jesus Christ. Yet Paul did not boast in his works or accomplishments like some modern preachers do. He boasted only in preaching the gospel of faith in Jesus, acknowledging that he did so not because he was a skilled and dynamic speaker but because of the power of God who used him. The Lord enabled him to preach to many different kinds of people, to enter into their world, to become in some ways like them so he could better understand their spiritual situation and tell them about Jesus. He put himself in the shoes of other people in imitation of Jesus who became one of us in order to save us and enable us to live in love and righteousness.
No doubt this method of spreading the good news required great patience and perseverance. It was hard work. Yet, unlike many modern preachers, celebrities and politicians, in fact unlike most people, Paul did not seek remuneration, rewards, awards, fame, or kudos for this work. He was a steward of God’s Kingdom, a servant who was commissioned by God to this ministry. Though he did receive support from believers he also worked to earn a living. Yet all that he did was for the sake of the gospel. And Paul readily acknowledged that all the glory for the work of spreading the Gospel belonged to the Lord. The Lord would give him ample reward with the gift of eternal life. The same reward is promised to us. Why should we seek our rewards then in the things of this world.