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"If we have sown spiritual things..."

Text: 1 Corinthians 9:11

THE IMAGERY OF SOWING

Paul applied the imagery of sowing and taught it as a principle of faith and life. His depth of understanding is to be deeply appreciated!

“If we have sown spiritual things for you,
is it a great thing if we reap your material things?
If others are partakers of this right over you,
are we not even more?
Nevertheless we have not used this right,
but endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ.”
1 Corinthians 9:11-12

1. “If we have sown spiritual things for you”

a) The fact is that Paul had indeed sown many spiritual seeds in the lives of the Corinthians.

b) Seeds sown:

i) Salvation

ii) Sanctification

iii) Living significantly and triumphantly

2. “Is it a great thing if we reap your material things?”

a) The material thing reference:

i) Practical support of ministry.

ii) This involves some commitment on the part of supporters.

b) The detractors of Paul:

i) They were unwilling to support.

ii) They did not feel that they needed to support Paul in any way.

3. “If others are partakers of this right over you, are we not even more”

a) The detractors of Paul were willing to support others.

b) These did not even play any significant part in their spiritual growth and development.

c) Logically, Paul should have been given full support!

4. “Nevertheless, we have not used this right”

a) Paul had every “right” (logically and spiritually speaking) to expect support.

b) But he and his companions did not exercise their “right” to have support for their ministry.

5. “But endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ”

a) This was the choice made by Paul- to endure all hardships, because of a lack of support.

b) His motivation- so that the Gospel ministry may not be hindered!