1 Corinthians 10:33

KJV

Even as I please all [men] in all [things], not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved.

KJV (with Strong's)

Even as {G2531} I {G2504} please {G700} all {G3956} men in all {G3956} things, not {G3361} seeking {G2212} mine own {G1683} profit {G4851}, but {G235} the profit {G3588} of many {G4183}, that {G2443} they may be saved {G4982}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not looking out for my own interests but for those of the many, so that they may be saved;

Berean Standard Bible

as I also try to please everyone in all I do. For I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, that they may be saved.

American Standard Version

even as I also please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of the many, that they may be saved.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 10:33, the Apostle Paul articulates a profound principle of Christian conduct, culminating his discourse on liberty and responsibility within the Corinthian church. He presents his own life as a paradigm of selfless accommodation, demonstrating that his primary aim in all his actions and choices is not personal gain or preference, but the spiritual well-being and ultimate salvation of others, thereby prioritizing the advancement of the gospel above all else.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the powerful conclusion to Paul's extended argument concerning Christian liberty, particularly as it relates to eating meat sacrificed to idols, spanning from [1 Corinthians 8](/1_corinthians/8 "1 Corinthians 8 - Food Sacrificed to Idols and Christian Conscience") through [1 Corinthians 10](/1_corinthians/10 "1 Corinthians 10 - Warnings from Israel's History and Christian Liberty"). Having established in [1 Corinthians 8:4-6](/1_corinthians/8-4-6 "1 Corinthians 8:4-6 - Idols are Nothing") that idols are "nothing" and Christians possess freedom in Christ, Paul immediately pivots to the critical caveat: this freedom must be exercised with love and consideration for others, especially those with weaker consciences. He warns against causing a "stumbling block" ([1 Corinthians 8:9](/1_corinthians/8-9 "1 Corinthians 8:9 - Do Not Cause Others to Stumble")), then illustrates this principle through his own apostolic example of self-denial for the sake of the gospel ([1 Corinthians 9:19-23](/1_corinthians/9-19-23 "1 Corinthians 9:19-23 - Paul Becomes All Things to All People")). The chapter then transitions to warnings from Israel's history against idolatry and presumption ([1 Corinthians 10:1-13](/1_corinthians/10-1-13 "1 Corinthians 10:1-13 - Warnings from Israel's Wilderness Journey")), before returning to practical guidelines for eating meat in public and private settings ([1 Corinthians 10:14-32](/1_corinthians/10-14-32 "1 Corinthians 10:14-32 - Flee Idolatry and Glorify God")). [1 Corinthians 10:33](/1_corinthians/10-33 "1 Corinthians 10:33 - Paul's Example of Selfless Accommodation") thus functions as a summary statement, encapsulating the overarching principle that should govern all Christian behavior: whatever we do, we should do it for the glory of God and the salvation of others, avoiding offense to anyone.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church existed within a bustling, cosmopolitan Roman city, a hub of trade, philosophy, and diverse religious practices. Pagan temples were ubiquitous, and meat sacrificed to idols was a common part of daily life, sold in public markets and served at social gatherings. For new Gentile converts, especially, the transition from paganism to Christianity presented complex ethical dilemmas regarding participation in such activities. Some "stronger" believers, confident in their theological understanding that idols were powerless, felt free to eat this meat without reservation. Others, perhaps former idolaters or those with more scrupulous consciences, found such practices deeply troubling, fearing it might constitute participation in idolatry or compromise their newfound faith. Paul's instruction navigates this tension, not by imposing rigid legalism, but by appealing to the higher law of love and the evangelistic imperative. The cultural expectation of hospitality and social participation also played a role, as refusing certain foods or invitations could be seen as offensive, yet compromising one's faith was equally problematic. Paul's teaching provides a nuanced framework for living faithfully within a pluralistic society.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 10:33](/1_corinthians/10-33 "1 Corinthians 10:33 - Paul's Example of Selfless Accommodation") powerfully reinforces several key themes woven throughout Paul's letter to the Corinthians. Foremost among these is **Selfless Love and Consideration for Others**. Paul consistently elevates the needs of the community above individual rights or preferences, a principle he elaborates on in his famous discourse on love in [1 Corinthians 13](/1_corinthians/13 "1 Corinthians 13 - The Superiority of Love"). Closely related is the theme of **Christian Liberty and Responsibility**, where freedom is not an end in itself but a means to serve and build up others, as highlighted in [1 Corinthians 8:9-13](/1_corinthians/8-9-13 "1 Corinthians 8:9-13 - Do Not Cause Your Brother to Stumble"). The verse also underscores the **Evangelistic Imperative**, revealing that the ultimate goal of Paul's self-sacrificing lifestyle is the salvation of the lost, echoing his commitment to "become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some" ([1 Corinthians 9:22](/1_corinthians/9-22 "1 Corinthians 9:22 - Paul's Strategy for the Gospel")). Finally, Paul's willingness to present his own life as a model for imitation ([1 Corinthians 11:1](/1_corinthians/11-1 "1 Corinthians 11:1 - Imitate Paul as He Imitates Christ")) is a recurring theme, demonstrating **Apostolic Example** as a practical guide for Christian living.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **please (Greek, _aréskō'_):** From G700, meaning "to be agreeable (or by implication, to seek to be so)." In this context, it signifies Paul's intentional effort to accommodate and adapt his behavior to others, not for personal popularity or flattery, but for a higher, spiritual purpose. It implies a desire to avoid causing offense and to create an environment conducive to receiving the gospel.
* **profit (Greek, _symphérō'_):** From G4851, meaning "to bear together (contribute), i.e. (literally) to collect, or (figuratively) to conduce; especially (neuter participle as a noun) advantage." Here, it refers to what is advantageous or beneficial, specifically in a spiritual sense. Paul is not seeking material or worldly advantage for himself, but the spiritual advantage and edification of the many.
* **saved (Greek, _sṓzō'_):** From G4982, meaning "to save, i.e. deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)." This term refers to spiritual salvation, deliverance from sin, its power, and its eternal consequences, through faith in Jesus Christ. It highlights the ultimate, eternal purpose behind Paul's self-sacrificing conduct.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Even as I please all [men] in all [things],"**: Paul sets himself forth as an example. The phrase "please all [men]" does not imply a relativistic compromise of truth or a desire for mere popularity. Instead, it speaks to his strategic adaptability and willingness to accommodate various cultural and personal sensitivities, as long as it does not violate God's truth. "In all [things]" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this principle, applying to every aspect of his conduct and ministry, demonstrating a consistent, pervasive commitment to others' spiritual welfare.
* **"not seeking mine own profit,"**: This clause establishes a clear contrast and defines the negative aspect of Paul's motivation. He explicitly denies that his actions are driven by self-interest, personal gain, or convenience. His own rights, preferences, or advantages are secondary and willingly set aside. This is a powerful statement against self-centeredness and a call to radical self-denial.
* **"but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved."**: This clause provides the positive motivation and the ultimate purpose behind Paul's selflessness. His focus is entirely on the "profit" or spiritual advantage of "many" – a broad reference to both believers (whose faith might be strengthened) and unbelievers (who might come to faith). The telos, the ultimate goal, is explicitly stated: "that they may be saved." This reveals the evangelistic heart of Paul's ministry and the overarching aim of all Christian conduct: to remove obstacles and create pathways for people to encounter the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse to convey his powerful message. The most prominent is **Apostolic Example**, where he directly presents his own life and ministry ("Even as I...") as the practical embodiment of the principles he has been teaching. This lends authority and authenticity to his exhortation. He also uses **Contrast** ("not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many"), sharply distinguishing his selfless motivation from any self-serving agenda. This antithesis underscores the radical nature of Christian love. Furthermore, the phrase "in all [things]" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole** or **Generalization**, emphasizing the comprehensive scope of his adaptability, though it is understood within the bounds of biblical truth. Finally, the concluding phrase "that they may be saved" functions as a clear **Purpose Clause**, explicitly stating the ultimate aim and driving force behind his actions, highlighting the evangelistic imperative that undergirds all Christian conduct.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in 1 Corinthians 10:33 encapsulates a profound theological truth: Christian liberty is not an end in itself, but a means to the greater end of glorifying God and advancing His kingdom through the salvation of others. This selfless posture, prioritizing the spiritual well-being of others over personal rights or preferences, is a hallmark of true Christ-likeness. It reflects the very nature of God, who in His love, gave His Son for the salvation of humanity. This principle challenges believers to move beyond a self-focused spirituality to one that is outward-looking, missional, and deeply rooted in agape love. It teaches that our conduct, even in seemingly mundane areas of life, can either facilitate or hinder the gospel's reception, making every choice a potential act of worship or a stumbling block.

* [Romans 15:1-3](/romans/15-1-3 "Romans 15:1-3 - Bearing with the Weak")
* [Philippians 2:3-4](/philippians/2-3-4 "Philippians 2:3-4 - Humility and Concern for Others")
* [Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Freedom to Serve One Another")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 10:33 serves as a powerful mirror, inviting believers to critically examine the motivations behind their choices and the impact of their Christian liberties on those around them. In a culture that often champions individual rights and personal autonomy, Paul's teaching calls us to a counter-cultural posture of selfless consideration. It challenges us to ask: Are my actions, preferences, and freedoms truly serving the spiritual "profit" of others, or are they inadvertently creating barriers to the gospel? This applies not only to major life decisions but also to everyday interactions, social media presence, entertainment choices, and even our theological discussions. Living out this verse means cultivating a sensitive conscience, willing to lay down personal preferences for the sake of a weaker brother or an unbelieving neighbor. It compels us to live with an evangelistic intentionality, always considering how our lives can best commend Christ and draw others into His saving embrace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I most prone to prioritize my own "profit" or preferences over the spiritual well-being of others?**
* **How can I become more intentional about discerning how my actions might impact the faith of weaker believers or the perceptions of unbelievers?**
* **What specific "liberties" might God be calling me to lay down or exercise differently for the sake of someone else's salvation?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of Christian freedom in a contemporary context?**

### FAQ
**Does "please all men" mean compromising on biblical truth or being a "people-pleaser"?**

Answer: No, Paul is not advocating for flattery, compromise of truth, or a self-serving desire for popularity. The Greek word _aréskō_ (G700) means "to be agreeable" or "to seek to satisfy," but in Paul's context, it is qualified by his ultimate purpose: "that they may be saved." Paul consistently stood firm on the truth of the gospel, even confronting Peter when necessary ([Galatians 2:11-14](/galatians/2-11-14 "Galatians 2:11-14 - Paul Confronts Peter")). His "pleasing" was a strategic adaptability in non-essential matters (like food customs or social interactions) to remove unnecessary obstacles to the gospel, not to dilute its message. It's about being winsome and approachable for the sake of Christ, rather than being offensive or exclusionary for personal preference. As he states in [1 Corinthians 9:22](/1_corinthians/9-22 "1 Corinthians 9:22 - Paul Becomes All Things to All People"), he became "all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's exemplary selflessness in [1 Corinthians 10:33](/1_corinthians/10-33 "1 Corinthians 10:33 - Paul's Example of Selfless Accommodation") finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's willingness to set aside his "own profit" for the "profit of many, that they may be saved" is a direct imitation of Christ's supreme act of self-emptying. The Son of God, though existing in the form of God, "did not consider equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself by taking the form of a servant, being born in human likeness" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - The Humility of Christ")). Jesus did not seek His own comfort or glory but came to serve and "to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). His entire earthly ministry, culminating in His crucifixion, was an act of profound self-sacrifice, motivated by divine love for the "profit" (eternal salvation) of humanity. He "pleased" the Father perfectly and became "all things" to humanity by fully identifying with our fallen condition, bearing our sins on the cross "that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life" ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Salvation")). Thus, Paul's exhortation is not merely a moral imperative but a call to embody the very spirit of Christ, whose life and death are the ultimate demonstration of selfless love for the salvation of the world.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 10:24

Let no man seek his own, but every man another's [wealth].

Galatians 1:10

¶ For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:19

¶ For though I be free from all [men], yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

1 Corinthians 9:23

And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with [you].

Romans 15:2

Let every one of us please [his] neighbour for [his] good to edification.

Romans 15:3

For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.

2 Corinthians 12:19

Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but [we do] all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.