The Word of the Cross is the basis for Church's Freedom
text: 1 Corinthians 8:1 – 9:27
Outline:
a. 8:1-3, what really builds up
b. 8:4-6, rules of engagement
c. 8:7-13, putting no stumbling block
d. 9:1-2, “Am I not an apostle?”
e. 9:3-7, My defense – 6 rhetorical questions
d'. 9:8-12a, “my rights as an apostle”
c'. 9:12b- 18, we put no obstacle
b'. 9:19-23, rules of engagement
a'. 9:24-27, train myself
Comments: Interesting – Most often chapters 8 and 9 are treated separately – when 8 is treatment of the food concerns, while is totally something else – freedom a minister to be supported by his flock. As you can see from the outline, the apostle had a particular thought in his mind – defending his freedom to eat, to drink, and enjoy the regular benefits of life, provided by the community of the saints.
