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.
1 CORINTHIANS 9:15KJVWhat does 1 Corinthians 9:15 mean?
1 Corinthians 9:15 shows Paul saying he has not made use of any of the rights or privileges he just described, and he is not writing to claim them now. Paul insists he would rather die than let anyone take away his reason for boasting about serving freely.
Paul is speaking to the Christians in Corinth, explaining his approach to ministry. Earlier in the chapter, he discussed his right to receive material support as an apostle, but here he makes it clear he has chosen not to use that right. Paul wants the Corinthians to understand that his motivation is not personal gain, but rather the freedom to serve without obligation.
The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 9:15
- "χρησάμενος" (chrēsamenos, "used"): This word means to make use of or take advantage of something. Paul emphasizes he has not taken advantage of his rights, highlighting his voluntary restraint.
- "καύχημά" (kauchēma, "glorying" or "boasting"): This word refers to a source of pride or something to boast about. Paul’s “boasting” is not arrogance, but his satisfaction in preaching the gospel without charge.
- "κενώσει" (kenōsē, "make void"): This word means to empty out or make worthless. Paul is saying he would rather die than have his reason for pride—serving freely—rendered meaningless.
Why 1 Corinthians 9:15 matters
- This verse clears up the misunderstanding that Paul was seeking material support or personal benefit from the Corinthians; he is explicit that he is not.
- Paul’s strong language about preferring death to losing his “boasting” shows how deeply he values serving the gospel freely, which sets an example of self-sacrifice.
- The verse connects to the wider passage by showing Paul’s consistent theme: Christian freedom is best used to serve others, not oneself.