How the Gospel Heals Division

1 Corinthians 9:1-23

Summary
In a divided church and a polarized world, Paul points us to the healing power of the gospel. Though he possessed real rights as an apostle, he willingly laid them down so that nothing would hinder Christ’s saving work. His life shows that unity grows not from asserting our freedoms, but from surrendering them in love. Following Paul as he follows Christ, we see the heart of the gospel itself: Jesus laid down not merely his rights, but his life to reconcile sinners to God and to one another.

Discussion Questions

• In 1 Corinthians 9:1–14, what rights does Paul say he legitimately possesses?
• Why does Paul emphasize that these rights are valid and biblical?
• What reason does Paul give in verse 12 for not making use of his rights?
• How would you summarize Paul’s main motivation in verses 19–23?
• What does Paul’s willingness to surrender his rights teach us about Christian freedom?
• How does Paul reflect the example of Christ in this passage?
• Why is it often easier to defend our rights than to lay them down?
• Can you think of situations where asserting your “rights” might harm relationships or witness?
• What might it look like to “become all things to all people” today without compromising truth?
• Where is God calling you to embrace inconvenience, discomfort, or sacrifice for the sake of others?
• How can laying down preferences help heal division in the church and in your life?
• How does Jesus’ laying down His life reshape how we view our freedoms?
• How does remembering reconciliation with God influence how we pursue reconciliation with others?
• What would change in our church if gospel-shaped humility marked all of our interactions?