1 Corinthians 9:12

KJV

If others be partakers of [this] power over you, [are] not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.

KJV (with Strong's)

If {G1487} others {G243} be partakers {G3348} of this power {G1849} over you {G5216}, are not {G3756} we {G2249} rather {G3123}? Nevertheless {G235} we have {G5530} not {G3756} used {G5530} this {G5026} power {G1849}; but {G235} suffer {G4722} all things {G3956}, lest {G3363} we should {G1325}{G5100} hinder {G1464} the gospel {G2098} of Christ {G5547}.

Complete Jewish Bible

If others are sharing in this right to be supported by you, don’t we have a greater claim to it?

But we don’t make use of this right. Rather, we put up with all kinds of things so as not to impede in any way the Good News about the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

If others have this right to your support, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not exercise this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.

American Standard Version

If others partake of this right over you, do not we yet more? Nevertheless we did not use this right; but we bear all things, that we may cause no hindrance to the gospel of Christ.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 9:12, the Apostle Paul underscores his profound commitment to the unhindered proclamation of the Gospel. He asserts his legitimate apostolic right to financial support from the Corinthian church, a right exercised by others, yet immediately clarifies that he and his companions deliberately refrained from utilizing this privilege. Their self-denial and endurance of various hardships were motivated by a singular, overarching purpose: to prevent any potential obstacle or hindrance to the spread and reception of the glorious message of Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a broader section of 1 Corinthians (chapters 8-10) where Paul addresses the issue of Christian liberty, particularly concerning eating meat offered to idols. Chapter 9 specifically serves as Paul's defense of his apostolic authority and rights, using himself as an example of how one might voluntarily restrict their freedom for the sake of others and the Gospel. He establishes his right to be financially supported by those he ministers to, citing various analogies such as soldiers, farmers, and shepherds ([1 Corinthians 9:7](/1_corinthians/9-7 "1 Corinthians 9:7 - Right to Support")), as well as Old Testament principles like the ox treading grain ([1 Corinthians 9:9](/1_corinthians/9-9 "1 Corinthians 9:9 - The Ox and the Law")) and the temple priests eating from the altar ([1 Corinthians 9:13](/1_corinthians/9-13 "1 Corinthians 9:13 - Priestly Support")). Verse 12 serves as the pivot point, where Paul transitions from asserting his right to explaining his deliberate choice *not* to exercise it, setting the stage for his subsequent arguments about self-discipline and striving for the prize in [1 Corinthians 9:24-27](/1_corinthians/9-24-27 "1 Corinthians 9:24-27 - Striving for the Prize").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, it was common for philosophers, teachers, and religious leaders to receive financial support from their disciples or patrons. This practice was well-established, and Paul, as an apostle and teacher, would have been fully justified in expecting such support. Jewish rabbis also had the right to be supported, though many chose to work a trade to avoid making the Torah a "burden." The Corinthian church itself was wealthy and diverse, with some members prone to asserting their "rights" and freedoms without sufficient consideration for weaker believers. Paul's decision to work as a tentmaker ([Acts 18:3](/acts/18-3 "Acts 18:3 - Paul's Trade")) was unusual for a figure of his stature and would have been a striking example to the Corinthians, who were perhaps more accustomed to leaders who lived off their ministry. His choice directly countered potential accusations of mercenary motives, which were sometimes leveled against itinerant teachers in the ancient world.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within 1 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. It highlights the theme of **Christian liberty and its limitations**, demonstrating that freedom in Christ is not absolute but should be exercised with consideration for others, especially the spiritually weak. It powerfully exemplifies **self-sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel**, showcasing Paul's willingness to forgo legitimate rights and endure hardship to advance God's kingdom. This resonates with his broader exhortation to seek the good of others, not just oneself, as seen in [1 Corinthians 10:24](/1_corinthians/10-24 "1 Corinthians 10:24 - Seek the Good of Others"). Furthermore, it underscores the **supremacy of the Gospel's advance** as the ultimate priority in ministry and Christian living. Paul's actions here are a living illustration of his commitment to "become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some" ([1 Corinthians 9:22](/1_corinthians/9-22 "1 Corinthians 9:22 - Becoming All Things")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **power (Greek, _exousía'_):** (G1849) This term, often translated as "power," carries a richer meaning here, signifying "privilege," "authority," "right," or "jurisdiction." Paul is not speaking of raw might but of a legitimate entitlement or prerogative. He claims the *right* to receive financial support, which is a key aspect of his apostolic authority, and then explains his choice to waive this right.
* **suffer (Greek, _stégō'_):** (G4722) This word literally means "to roof over" or "to cover," and figuratively, "to cover with silence" or "to endure patiently." In this context, it conveys the idea of bearing up under, enduring, or patiently forbearing. Paul is stating that he and his companions patiently endured all sorts of difficulties and privations, rather than exercising their right to support, for the sake of the Gospel. It implies a resilient and uncomplaining endurance.
* **hinder (Greek, _enkopḗ'_):** (G1464) Derived from a verb meaning "to cut into" or "to impede," this noun refers to a "hindrance," "obstacle," or "impediment." Paul's primary concern was to remove any potential stumbling block that might prevent people from receiving or believing the Gospel. His self-support was a strategic decision to ensure the message itself was not discredited or obscured by perceptions of greed or self-interest.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If others be partakers of [this] power over you, [are] not we rather?"**: Paul begins with a rhetorical question, asserting his greater claim to the "power" or "right" (exousía) of financial support from the Corinthians. He implies that if other teachers or apostles have legitimately received support from them, then he, as their spiritual father and the one who founded the church, has an even stronger, more legitimate claim. This sets up the contrast with his subsequent actions.
* **"Nevertheless we have not used this power;"**: Despite having a clear and arguably superior right to financial support, Paul explicitly states that he and his fellow ministers chose not to exercise it. The "nevertheless" (allá) highlights the stark contrast between their legitimate right and their actual practice, emphasizing their deliberate self-denial.
* **"but suffer all things,"**: This phrase emphasizes the cost of their choice. Instead of receiving support, Paul and his companions endured various hardships and privations (stégō – patiently bore or covered over all things). This "suffering" was not passive but an active, intentional endurance of discomfort or lack for a higher purpose. It demonstrates the depth of their commitment.
* **"lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ."**: This is the crucial purpose clause, revealing the ultimate motivation behind Paul's self-sacrifice. His primary concern was to prevent any impediment (enkopḗ) to the spread and acceptance of the "gospel of Christ." He understood that accepting financial support, even if legitimate, could be misconstrued, lead to accusations of greed, or create a barrier to belief for some, thus hindering the very message he was commissioned to proclaim.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several impactful literary devices. A prominent one is the **Rhetorical Question** ("If others be partakers of [this] power over you, [are] not we rather?"). This question is not meant to be answered but to underscore Paul's undeniable right to support, making his subsequent renunciation of that right even more striking. There is a strong use of **Contrast**, pitting Paul's legitimate "power" or "right" against his voluntary non-use of it and his willingness to "suffer all things." This highlights his selfless dedication. The phrase "suffer all things" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole** or **Generalization**, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the hardships endured for the sake of the Gospel. Finally, the verse concludes with a clear **Purpose Clause** ("lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ"), which explicitly states the overarching goal and motivation behind Paul's actions, giving profound meaning to his self-sacrifice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's decision to forgo his legitimate rights for the sake of the Gospel's advance is a profound theological statement on the nature of Christian service and the priority of God's kingdom. It teaches that while ministers have a divine right to support, the exercise of that right must always be subordinate to the mission of Christ and the spiritual welfare of the flock. This principle transcends mere financial matters, extending to any area where personal liberty might inadvertently become a stumbling block to others or an impediment to the Gospel. Paul's example calls believers to a radical self-emptying, mirroring Christ's own humility, where personal preferences and even legitimate entitlements are willingly set aside for the greater glory of God and the salvation of souls. It underscores that the integrity and unhindered proclamation of the Good News are paramount.

* [1 Timothy 5:18](/1_timothy/5-18 "1 Timothy 5:18 - The Laborer Deserves His Wages"): "For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward."
* [2 Corinthians 11:7-9](/2_corinthians/11-7-9 "2 Corinthians 11:7-9 - Paul's Self-Support in Corinth"): "Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely? I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself."
* [Romans 14:13](/romans/14-13 "Romans 14:13 - Do Not Cause Another to Stumble"): "Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's example in [1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "1 Corinthians 9:12 - Paul's Renunciation of Rights") challenges every believer to examine their own lives and priorities. It's easy to assert our rights and freedoms, but Paul demonstrates a higher calling: to consider how our actions, even legitimate ones, might impact the perception of the Gospel or the spiritual growth of others. For those in ministry, this verse is a powerful reminder that while support is a right, the unhindered advance of the Gospel is the ultimate goal, sometimes requiring personal sacrifice and discernment regarding how and when to exercise that right. For all believers, it cultivates a spirit of selfless service, urging us to prioritize the Kingdom of God above personal comfort or entitlement. What "rights" might we need to lay down, what "sufferings" might we need to endure, to ensure that the message of Christ is not hindered in our spheres of influence? This verse calls us to a radical devotion where the purity and progress of the Gospel are paramount, inspiring us to live in such a way that our lives commend, rather than compromise, the Good News.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What legitimate "rights" or freedoms do I possess that, if exercised without discernment, might potentially hinder the Gospel's witness in my context?**
* **In what areas of my life am I willing to "suffer all things" – to endure discomfort or forgo personal gain – for the sake of advancing Christ's kingdom?**
* **How can I ensure that my actions and choices consistently commend the Gospel, rather than create obstacles for those who might be seeking Christ?**

### FAQ
**What "power" is Paul referring to in 1 Corinthians 9:12?**

Answer: The "power" (Greek: *exousía*) Paul refers to is his legitimate right, authority, or privilege to receive financial support from the Corinthian church as an apostle. Throughout [1 Corinthians 9](/1_corinthians/9 "1 Corinthians 9 - Paul's Apostolic Rights"), Paul argues that those who minister spiritual things have a right to be supported materially, citing examples from common life (soldiers, farmers, shepherds in [1 Corinthians 9:7](/1_corinthians/9-7 "1 Corinthians 9:7 - Right to Support")), Old Testament law (the ox treading grain in [1 Corinthians 9:9](/1_corinthians/9-9 "1 Corinthians 9:9 - The Ox and the Law")), and the practice of temple priests ([1 Corinthians 9:13](/1_corinthians/9-13 "1 Corinthians 9:13 - Priestly Support")). He clearly establishes that he, as an apostle, possessed this right.

**Why did Paul choose not to use his right to financial support in Corinth?**

Answer: Paul's primary motivation for not exercising his right to financial support was "lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ." He understood that accepting support, even though legitimate, might create a perception of greed or mercenary motives among some, particularly in a culture where itinerant teachers were sometimes viewed with suspicion. His self-support as a tentmaker ([Acts 18:3](/acts/18-3 "Acts 18:3 - Paul's Trade")) allowed him to preach the Gospel "free of charge" ([1 Corinthians 9:18](/1_corinthians/9-18 "1 Corinthians 9:18 - Preaching Without Charge")), removing any potential financial barrier or accusation that could discredit his message or his ministry. His aim was to ensure the Gospel's purity and unhindered advance.

**Does this verse mean that ministers should never accept financial support?**

Answer: No, this verse does not prohibit ministers from receiving financial support. In fact, Paul explicitly affirms the right of ministers to be supported in this very chapter ([1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "1 Corinthians 9:14 - The Lord Ordained Support")). His decision was a specific, strategic choice made for the unique context of the Corinthian church, where accepting support might have created a hindrance. The principle is one of discernment and sacrifice: while ministers have a right to support, the unhindered proclamation of the Gospel and the spiritual well-being of the church should always take precedence over personal rights or preferences. Paul's example highlights the importance of prioritizing the mission of Christ, even if it requires personal sacrifice, rather than establishing a universal prohibition against ministerial support.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's radical self-sacrifice in [1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "1 Corinthians 9:12 - Paul's Renunciation of Rights") finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's willingness to forgo legitimate rights and "suffer all things" for the sake of the Gospel is a profound echo of Christ's own divine self-emptying. Though Christ possessed all the "power" and glory of God, He "did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage" ([Philippians 2:6](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6 - Christ's Humility")). Instead, He willingly "made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Incarnation")), enduring unimaginable suffering, even death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")), not for His own gain, but "for the joy set before Him" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith")) – the joy of bringing salvation to humanity. Just as Paul suffered to "hinder the gospel of Christ" from being hindered, Christ suffered to *unleash* the Gospel, removing the ultimate hindrance of sin and death. His life, death, and resurrection are the supreme demonstration of laying down all rights and enduring all things, so that the Good News might be proclaimed and received, transforming lives for eternity. Thus, Paul's example is not merely a moral imperative but a Spirit-empowered imitation of the self-giving love and mission of his Lord, Jesus Christ.

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 9:18

What is my reward then? [Verily] that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.

1 Corinthians 9:15

¶ But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for [it were] better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.

2 Corinthians 11:12

But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.

1 Thessalonians 2:6

Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor [yet] of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

1 Thessalonians 2:9

For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

2 Corinthians 11:7

Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?

2 Corinthians 11:10

As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.