BHT with Abridged Translator’s Notes1 Corinthians 9 =
9
“For the Sake of All People I Have Become All Things”
1 I am free, am I not? I am an apostle, am I not? It is Jesus our Lord on whom I have laid my eyes, is it not? The result of my work in union with the Lord is you yourselves, is it not? 2 Even if I am not an apostle in the eyes of others, surely I am at least in yours! The proof that I am a genuine apostle,+ you see, is you yourselves, in union with the Lord. 3 My defense before those who are putting me under cross-examination is this: 4 We have the right to receive financial support,+ do we not? 5 We have the right to take with us on our travels a believing wife, do we not, like the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Kefa, Peter? 6 Or are Barnabas and I the only ones who have no right to refrain from working for a living? 7 Have you ever heard of a soldier serving in the army at his own expense? Have you ever heard of someone planting a vineyard, but then not getting to eat any of its fruit? Have you ever heard of a shepherd taking care of a flock, but then not getting to use any of the milk that the flock produces? 8 Is it on mere human authority+ that I am saying these things? The Torah, too, itself teaches the same principle,+ doesn’t it? 9 Indeed, in the Torah of Moses it is written: “ˢYou must not muzzle an ox and keep it from eating while it is treading out the grain.”+ Surely it isn’t only oxen about which God is here concerned, is it? 10 Or is it for our benefit that he doubtless says this? It was for our benefit that it was written, to show that the one who breaks up the ground+ and the one who separates the grain from the chaff+ should both do their work how? In hope, of receiving a share in the harvest.+ 11 If we, among you, have sown blessings of the Spirit, are we expecting too much if we wish to reap+ from you the blessing of life’s everyday necessities+? 12 If others share in the right to receive support from you, how much more should we ourselves? Even so, we have refused to avail ourselves of this right. Instead, we endure all things in order to keep ourselves from becoming a hindrance to the gospel about the Messiah.+
13 Surely you know, don’t you, that those who perform the holy services in the temple, from the temple receive their food?+ And that those who serve at the altar of sacrifice, from the sacrificial offerings receive their due portion?+ 14 In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should from the gospel receive their living.+ 15 I, however, have chosen not to avail myself of any of these privileges. And my reason in writing these things now isn’t to secure such provisions for myself.+ I would much rather die, in fact, than—of this praiseworthy honor of mine+ no one will rob me!+ 16 If I proclaim the gospel, you see, that fact in itself gives me no grounds for honor and reward,+ since I would only be doing what I am required to do anyway.+ Yes, woe and calamity to me if I do not proclaim the gospel! 17 Indeed, if it were as a matter of free choice that I were doing my work,+ I could expect,+ then, a reward. As it is, I have no real choice in the matter; it is a stewardship with which I have been entrusted. 18 Precisely what, then, is my reward? That when proclaiming the gospel I may offer it freely, thus making only sparing use of my right to receive support from it.+
19 Even though I’m not a slave,+ you see, to any man, for the sake of people of all kinds I make myself a slave, so that I may win as many people as at all possible.+ 20 I became,+ for the sake+ of the Jews, like a Jew, in order to win Jews; for the sake of those subject to Torah, like someone subject to Torah+ (though I myself am not subject to Torah), in order to win those who are subject to Torah; 21 for the sake of those who are without Torah, like one without Torah (although I am not without God’s Torah;+ I am subject to the Torah of the Messiah),+ in order to win those who are without Torah. 22 I became, for the sake of the weak, weak, so that I can do what? Win the weak. For the sake of all people I have become all things, so that I might be used to save, by all possible means, at least some.
23 I do all these things because of the gospel,+ in the hope+ of sharing, along with others, in the things it promises.+ 24 Surely you know, don’t you, that those who are running in a stadium all compete in the race, yet only one receives the prize? This is precisely how you must run the race, to win the prize. 25 All who contend for the prize, moreover, exercise self-control in every respect. Whereas they, therefore, do it to receive a victor’s crown that decays, we do it to receive one that will never decay.+ 26 So then, in my own race, here’s how I run: With singular focus on the finish line.+ And in my own fight, here’s how I box: Without wasting a punch.+ 27 I subject my body to strict training and continually make it obey me,+ so that, after having proclaimed the gospel to others, I myself don’t turn out to be unapproved upon examination.
+1:1Or called. Following L-N in translation here (see L-N, 33.314).+1:2Lit summoned to be holy, or called/summoned to be saints. Cf 1 Th 4:7, 5:23; 2 Th 2:13.+1:3Unless otherwise marked (through superscript—ˢyou), all second person pronouns are in the second person plural.+1:5Or speech.+1:6Cf 1 Th 1:5.+1:6Cf 1 Co 2:1-5; Th 1:5. Translating ἐν ὑμῖν ( en humin) in a way similar to 1 Th 1:5 (cf CJB, ISV, NCV, NLT, and TEV at 1 Th 1:5). Paul’s point here is similar to his statements in 1 Th 1:4-5.+1:8Lit who.+1:8Cf Php 1:10; Col 1:22 Th 3:12, 5:23; Jud 24.+1:9Or trustworthy. Cf 1 Th 5:24; 2 Th 3:3.+1:9Or called, or invited.+1:9Cf Rm 5:3, 8:17, 8:27-30; Ga 2:20-21, 3:26-29; Php 3:10, 3:21; Col 3:1-4.+1:10Lit speak the same thing. ME (see BDAG, 588, sv λέγω 1.a.α.; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 32; UBSHS [1 Co], 20).+1:10For the basis of this rendering of νοῦς ( nous), see BDAG, 680, sv 2.b. An attitude of humility is what Paul means here (cf Php 2).+1:10Lit be restored to order/unity in the same mind and in the same conviction.+1:11Lit for it was made clear to me concerning you, my brothers, by those of Chloe, that there are bitter arguments/quarrels among you. ME. The mismatch in languages here is obvious.+1:12Lit each of you says. In English, this type of statement is more clearly and naturally expressed by distributing the subject and grouping it with the claim. Cf CJB, NCV, NIV, NLT.+1:12Lit I am of Paul. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 21). Variations of this are used here and in 1 Co 3:1, to aid in the translation of 3:21 (where the genitive is functioning on multiple levels at the same time, and where the things referred to are very diverse in nature).+1:13Or on your behalf, or in your place. See note at Ga 1:3.+1:13Cf Col 1:13.+1:16Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:17Lit not with wisdom of speech/word. ME (see BDAG, 599, sv λόγος 1.a.β.; notes at 1 Th 1:5).+1:18Or deliverance.+1:19Cf Mt 11:25.+1:19Is 29:14+1:20Lit where. EFE. Though intelligible to some degree, the intended effect and meaning of the rhetorical question here doesn’t transfer as naturally into English simply with “where” (cf UBSHS [1 Co], 31). The CJB, LB, NCV, and TEV are best here.+1:20Lit where. EFE. See previous note.+1:20Lit where. EFE. See previous two notes.+1:20Lit Did not God make foolish the wisdom of the world? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 31). Cf TEV.+1:21Lit Since in the wisdom of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 52; UBSHS [1 Co], 32). Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:21Cf Mt 11:25-28; Jn 1:18.+1:21IT. Cf TEV; UBSHS [1 Co], 32; v 1:18 above.+1:21Or in him. The object of faith is implied contextually. Cf CJB.+1:22Lit Greeks.+1:23Cf Dt 32:21; Ps 118:22; Is 28:16; Ac 22:22; Rm 9:33, 10:19, 11:9; 1 Pe 2:6-8.+1:23Because of the importance of the “stumbling block” motif in NT teaching, especially with regard to the Jewish people (see, eg, Ps 118:22; Is 28:16; Rm 9:33, 11:9; 1 Pe 2:6-8), I thought it important to maintain the literal imagery here. I have clarified the meaning (see L-N, 25.181), though, with an appositional phrase.+1:23See previous note.+1:23Cf Ac 17:16-21.+1:24Or called, or invited.+1:24Lit Greeks.+1:26Lit look at your calling. ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 1:26; UBSHS [1 Co], 37). Cf NET, TEV.+1:27Lit the foolish things of the world. ME Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+1:27Or chose, or has chosen.+1:27Cf Dt 7:7-9; 1 Sm 16:1-12; 2 Sm 7:8; Am 7:14; Ac 4:13.+1:27Lit the weak things of the world. ME. Cf CJB, TEV.+1:28Lit the insignificant things of the world and the despised things. ME. Cf NCV, TEV.+1:28Lit the things not being. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 65; UBSHS [1 Co], 39). Cf NLT, NCV, TEV.+1:28Lit the things being. ME. Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV. Here, the opposite of “the things not being” is meant (see note earlier in this verse).+1:29Lit all flesh, or any flesh, or any kind of flesh. Translated according to “Flesh” M, N (see FBT Chart). Cf translation and note at Ac 2:17.+1:29Lit so that no flesh may boast. ME (see notes at 2 Co 1:14).+1:30Lit out of him, or from him, or because of him, or by him. ME. Cf NASB, NCV, NLT, REB, TEV, TNT. Cf Dt 7:7-9, 9:4-6; Jr 9:23-24; Rm 9:14-18; 1 Jn 4:19; v 31.+1:30Cf CJB, ISV, NLT, TEV.+1:30This may well be an allusion to the cornerstone motif (cf Ps 118:22; Mt 21:42-43; Mk 12:10-11; Ac 4:11). Cf παρὰ κυρίου ( para kuriou) in Mt 21:42 with ἐξ αὐτοῦ ( ex autou) and ἀπὸ θεοῦ ( apo theou) in this verse, and note how this element receives focal prominence here and in Mt 21:42. Cf also the TEV’s translation of γίνομαι at Mt 21:28.+1:30Lit sanctification. ME/IT (see Timothy Miller, “Paul’s Priestly Mission and Salvation from the Coming Wrath: A Missiological Probe of Romans 15:16 and the Question of Divine Anger through the Worldview of Leviticus” [PhD diss., Columbia International University, 2024]).+1:31Lit boasts. ME (see notes at 2 Co 1:14).+1:31Lit in the Lord. ME(OTB) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 42; cf, eg, Ps 77:11, 78:4, 106:2). Cf TEV. Ga 6:14 confirms that the TEV has rightly identified the intending meaning here. Cf Rm 1:16-17.+1:31Jr 9:24+2:4Lit in persuasion of wisdom. ME. Cf NCV, NIV, NLT.+2:4Lit proof/demonstration [consisting] of the Spirit and power. ME. Following the lead of BDAG in translation here (see BDAG, 109, sv ἀπόδειξις), with the information in the verbal noun activated in verb form for more natural expression in English. Cf Ac 10:44-48, 11:15-17; Ga 4:6-7; 1 Th 1:5.+2:6Cf Ps 110:5-6; Is 24:21-23; Dn 10; Zc 14; 1 Co 6:1-3; Eph 3:10-11; 1 Jn 5:19; Re 19:11-21:15.+2:7Cf Rm 16:25; Eph 3:3-9; Col 1:25-28.+2:7The antecedent here is “wisdom.” When used with προορίζω ( proorizō), a wise plan or decision is meant (see L-N, 30.84; UBSHS [1 Co], 54; Ac 4:28; Eph 3:9). Cf NCV, NLT.+2:7Lit unto/for/with a view to our glory. ME (see BDAG, 257, sv δόξα 1.c.; translation and notes at Jn 7:39, Rm 8:30). Cf Is 52:12-53:12; 1 Pt 1:20.+2:8Cf Is 40:13-14; Rm 11:34.+2:8Cf Is 53:1; Jn 1:14, 12:38; Php 2:6-11; 1 Ti 3:16.+2:9Lit not ascend in/on the heart of man. ME(I/F) (see BDAG, 58, sv ἀναβαίνω 2; L-N, 30.17; UBSHS [1 Co], 56). Cf HCSB.+2:9Is 64:4+2:10Cf Eph 3:4-6; Col 1:26-27.+2:10Lit the deep things of God. ME (see L-N, 28.76; UBSHS [Re], 61). Cf Dn 2:20-23; 1 Pt 1:11.+2:11Lit Who among men knows the things of the man except the spirit of the man that is in him? ME. The gap between languages here is obvious. Cf NLT.+2:11Lit the things. What the “things” are is made clear from the context. Cf ESV, HCSB, NASB, RSV.+2:13Cf Is 54:13. Cf Jr 31:33-34; Jn 6:45, 16:13; Rm 2:15; 1 Th 4:9; Heb 8:10-11; 1 Jn 2:27.+2:13Or comparing things of the Spirit with things of the Spirit. Though I am not dogmatic here, Paul’s use of πνευματικοῖς ( pneumatikois) in 1 Co 3:1 causes me to favor the interpretation reflected in the translation. Also, looking to the context for the intended meaning of πνευματικὰ ( pneumatika) here: “My message and my preaching” (v 4); “God has revealed them to us by the Spirit” (v 10); “so that we may understand” (v 12); “taught by the Spirit” (v 13); “unable to understand” (v 14); “examined and understood” (v 14); “examine and understand all things” (v 15).+2:14Lit the natural man. ME (see ANLEX, 414, sv ψυχικός 2; UBSHS [1 Co], 61). In addition to the immediate context, Jude 19 makes it clear what is meant by ψυχικός ( psuchikos) here. Cf NIV, NCV, TEV.+2:14Cf Jn 14:15-17.+2:14Lit they.+2:15Cf 1 Co 4:8-13; Heb 11.+2:16A loose quotation of Is 40:13 (LXX).+2:16IT/ME(OTB) (see BDAG, 680, sv νοῦς 3; UBSHS [1 Co], 63; MT of Is 40:13, where rûach [“spirit/breath/mind”] is used). Many English readers might not realize the close relationship between spirit and mind presupposed by Paul’s statement here. Therefore, the IT has been made explicit in translation, so that the connection between this statement and information activated in the broader context is not lost in translation.+3:1Lit as to fleshly people. ME (see L-N, 41.42; UBSHS [1 Co], 67). Cf CJB, ISV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+3:3Lit for still you are fleshly. ME (see note at v 1).+3:3Lit according to man. ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 3:3). Cf CJB, LET, NCV, NET, NLT, TEV.+3:4Lit Are you not men? ME (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 3:3; UBSHS [1 Co], 70).+3:5Lit to each as the Lord gave. ME. Cf NCV, NLT.+3:7Cf NAB.+3:8Or are united. Lit are one. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 119; UBSHS [1 Co], 73). Cf HCSB, ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT, NRSV.+3:8Or wages.+3:9Lit we. The “we” here is an exclusive we, referring to Paul and Apollos (see UBSHS [1 Co], 74). Cf NLT. Cf also 1 Co 4:6.+3:9Lit For we are fellow-workers for God, or For we are God’s fellow-workers. ME. Cf REB, NCV, NRSV, TEV.+3:10Lit according to the grace/gracious gift of God that was given to me. ME (see ANLEX, 407, sv χάρις 3; UBSHS [1 Co], 75).+3:12ME(H)/IT (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 128; UBSHS [1 Co], 77). Cf v 14.+3:12ME (H)/IT (see previous note).+3:13Or because each person’s work. Lit it.+3:13Cf 2 Pt 3.+3:15Or he will be punished. Cf REB.+3:15Lit but so as through fire. ME (see BDAG, 898, sv πῦρ a.; UBSHS [1 Co], 79). Cf CJB, HCSB ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+3:16Or in you, or among you.+3:18Lit in this age. ME (see L-N, 41.38). Cf NIV, NLT.+3:19Jb 5:13+3:20Ps 94:11. Cf the translation of μάταιος [ mataios] here with that at 1 Co 15:17. I have also used “worthless,” though, to preserve potential links in thought with Rm 1:21.+3:21Lit let no one boast in men. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 84; notes at Mt 19:26; 1 Co 1:12, 3:4). Cf HCSB, NET, NCV.+3:21The genitive is functioning at maximum capacity here, with different shades of meaning simultaneously at work because of the diverse nature of the things referred to in the list that follows. With Paul, Apollos, and Cephas, the meaning is that these men are given by God to serve the Corinthians. With “world,” the inheritance that believers will receive at the Second Coming is in view (cf Rm 4:13; Ga 4). “Life” could also conceivably be included with the inheritance, but because it is grouped with death (which certainly isn’t part of the inheritance), “life or death” most likely means something along the lines of passages like 2 Co 2:15, 4:1-12, and 2 Co 11:23, Eph 3:1, Php 1:20-25, Col 1:24, and 1 Th 1:5. “Things present” means the things experienced in this age for our good (cf Rm 8:28-29), and “things to come” refers again to the future inheritance (cf, eg, Rm 8:17). Cf ESS (1 Co 1-9), 143-6.+3:22Cf Jn 13:12-17; Rm 4:13, 8:17, 8:28-9; 2 Co 2:15, 4:1-12; Ga 4; Eph 3:1; Php 1:20-25, 3:10-11; Col 1:24; 1 Th 1:5.+3:23Lit You are of the Messiah. Maintaining consistency in translation with 1 Co 1:12 (see translation and note there).+3:23Lit the Messiah is of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 146). Cf Rm 8:17; 1 Co 11:3, 15:28.+4:1Cf Rm 16:25-26; 1 Co 2:1, 7; Eph 3:5; Col 1:26; 1 Th 2:4.+4:2Cf HCSB.+4:4Lit I am not conscious of anything against myself. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 90). Cf ISV, NIV, NLT, TEV.+4:4Cf translation and notes at 1 Co 2:15.+4:4Lit examines me, or discerns me.+4:5Lit the purposes/intentions of the heart. ME(H/OTB) (see note at Mk 3:5).+4:6Lit in us, or by us. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 161; UBSHS [1 Co], 93). Cf NCV, TEV, REB.+4:6Or learn.+4:6Lit the not above what is written. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 162; L-N, 88.95; UBSHS [1 Co], 93).+4:6Lit so that none of you are inflated with pride for/in favor of the one against the other. ME. The mismatch in languages is significant here. The meaning is clear from the context. Cf ESS (1 Co 1-9), 164; UBSHS (1 Co), 94.+4:7Lit Who differentiates you? ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 95). Cf Re 3:17-19.+4:8Cf Dn 7:21-22; 1 Co 4:5, 6:2-3; 1 Th 4:17; Heb 12:39-40; Re 2:25-28.+4:9Lit God has appointed/publicly displayed us apostles last/at the end like men condemned to death. ME(H)/IT (see BDAG, 108, sv ἀποδείκνυμι 1; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 170-171; FSB, 1 Co 4:9, sv ἀποδείκνυμι; UBSHS [1 Co], 97).+4:17Or faithful, or dependable, or loyal.+4:18Lit as though my not coming to you. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 105). Cf NCV, NLT, TEV.+4:19Lit I will know not the word of those inflated with pride, but the power. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 106). Cf ISV, NLT, TEV.+4:20Cf CSB, NIV, REB. For another possibility, see VPR (see VCC, 1 Co 4:19). The verb is not explicit, and therefore must be inferred from the context. Cf Dn 2:34, 44; Mt 16:27, 25:31; Mk 9:2, 13:26; Lk 17:21-25, 21:28-30; 2 Th 1:5-8; 2 Ti 4:1-8.+5:1Lit Everywhere it is being reported, or it is actually being reported. ME (see BDAG, 704, sv ὅλως; UBSHS [1 Co], 109).+5:1Lit and such immorality which is not even among the Gentiles. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 109). Cf NLT, TEV.+5:1Lit so that someone has the wife of the father. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 111). Cf CJB, NLT, TEV.+5:3Lit though absent in the body. ME. Cf NCV, NLT.+5:3Cf Mt 16:19, 18:15-20.+5:4Lit and my own spirit. ME. Cf NET, NIV.+5:5Lit the (that is, the man’s).+5:5Cf Pr 20:30.+5:6Lit your boasting.+5:6καλός ( kalos) can mean “good” in the sense of “beautiful” (see, eg, L-N, 79.9) or “advantageous” (see, eg, L-N, 65.43). Here it has been translated as the opposite of these (ie, “not beautiful,” and “not advantageous” [in this context, “not advantageous” in the sense of “dangerous” fits the context well]).+5:6Lit leavens. ME(H/OTB) (see note at Ga 5:9).+5:7Cf Ex 12:15; Eph 4:17-32; Col 3:5-10.+5:7Cf Ex 12:1-28; Jn 19:36.+5:8Cf Ex 12:1-28; Lv 23:4-8; Nu 9:1-5.+5:9Lit I wrote to you in the letter. ME(H) (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 214; UBSHS [1 Co], 117). Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+5:10Lit not by any means/entirely the sexually immoral people of this world. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 118). Cf FrCL.+5:10Lit since then you would be obligated to go out of the world. ME(I/F) (see BDAG, 348, sv ἐξέρχομαι 2).+5:11Or Now I am writing to you. Cf NLT, TEV.+5:12Cf Mt 16:17-20, 18:10-20.+5:13Cf Rm 2:1-16, 12:19-20.+5:13Dt 17:7+6:1Lit the unrighteous, or the unjustified. ME (see ANLEX, 35, sv ἄδικος 5; UBSHS [1 Co], 124).+6:1Lit the holy ones.+6:2Lit the holy ones.+6:2Cf ISV.+6:2Cf Is 1:26-27; Dn 7:21-27.+6:3Cf NCV, NIV, NLT, TEV; UBSHS (1 Co), 125. Paul’s argument here is an example of a lesser-to-greater argument (cf, eg, Mt 6:26, 12:12), though here the greater is stated first. Paul obviously isn’t saying that the matters leaders must deal with in this age (like immorality in the church; see ch 5) are unimportant, but that they are less weighty in comparison to the responsibilities that will be entrusted to the saints in the age to come.+6:4Lit you have. Cf ISV at v 2.+6:4Or Those who are despised in the assembly, are you going to seat these people? Lit Those who are despised/least esteemed/disdained in the assembly, these people seat. ME (see BDAG, 491, sv καθίζω 2; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 226; L-N, 37.104; UBSHS [1 Co], 125-7).+6:5Lit among you. ME. Cf TEV.+6:9The two Greek terms used here refer to the passive and active partners in a male homosexual relationship (see L-N, 88.281, 88.280). Cf NET.+6:10Cf Re 21:6-8.+6:11Lit you were sanctified. ME/IT (see Timothy Miller, “Paul’s Priestly Mission and Salvation from the Coming Wrath: A Missiological Probe of Romans 15:16 and the Question of Divine Anger through the Worldview of Leviticus” [PhD diss., Columbia International University, 2024]).+6:11IT. The extension of mercy is implied here. See James B. Prothro, A Pauline Theology of Justification: Forgiveness, Friendship, and Life in Christ. (Eugene, Oregon: Cascade Books, 2023). Cf Rom 4:1-8.+6:12Here Paul is obviously talking about all things that are good in themselves (such as food and sex, for example).+6:12Lit all things for me are permitted. ME. Looking to 1 Co 10:23-25, Ga 2:11-13, and 1Ti 6:18 for clarity as to the intended meaning of the saying here. Cf ESS (1 Co 1-9), 236; REB, TEV.+6:12Cf 1 Ti 6:17-19.+6:13Lit both this [the stomach] and these [foods]. The antecedents have been made explicit in translation for the sake of clarity.+6:13Cf 1 Co 3:16-17; 2 Co 11:2; Eph 5:25-33; Col 3:4; 2 Th 1:10.+6:15Lit members, or parts. Cf REB.+6:15Lit the members of the Messiah.+6:15Lit make them members of. Cf NCV.+6:16Gn 2:24+6:18Lit is outside the body, or is independent of the body. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 138; Spence, PC [1 Co], 194). The meaning of this phrase is difficult to determine, but the context (note the contrast with “sins against his own body,” or “sins in his own body,” or “sins with reference to his own body”) seems to favor an interpretation somewhere between those of Spence, NLT, and GeCL. Following their lead in the translation here. Cf also 2 Co 7:2.+6:18Or in, or with reference to.+6:19Cf Rm 14:7–8; 1Co 3:16; 2 Co 6:16.+6:19Or among.+6:20Lit in, or by. Cf CJB, TEV. I like the clarity of these translations, but wanted to keep “in your body” in clause-final. Hence the translation here.+7:2Lit because of the immoralities. The plural here is interpreted in terms of pervasiveness of acts (see previous note). This is reflected in the translation. Cf CJB, HCSB, ISV, NCV, NIV, NLT.+7:3Lit To the wife let the husband repay the debt/duty. ME(I/F) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 144).+7:5Lit be again in the same place. ME(I/F) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 146). Cf NET, TEV.+7:7Cf Mt 19:10-12.+7:8Lit I say.+7:8Lit if they remain even as I. Cf CJB, ESV, NIV, NLT, NRSV, RSV, TEV.+7:10Cf Mk 10:5-12.+7:14Or is consecrated.+7:14Lit is set apart in his wife. ME (see BDAG, 329, sv ἐν 9.a.; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 268; UBSHS [1 Co], 153).+7:14Lit is set apart in the brother. ME (see previous note).+7:15Or called.+7:16Cf TEV.+7:16The spouse here is meant to be understood as playing an instrumental role in salvation (see BDAG, 982, sv σῴζω 2.a.β.).+7:16Cf 1 Pt 3:1-6.+7:16Cf TEV.+7:17Or called.+7:17Cf TEV; UBSHS (1 Co), 158.+7:18Lit let him not pull over the foreskin. ME(H) (see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 7:18).+7:19IT. Cf ISV, NCV, NET, NIV, NLT, TEV.+7:20Lit in the calling in which he was called/summoned. ME (see ANLEX, 232, sv κλῆσις 2; BDAG, 549, sv κλῆσις 2; DBL Greek, #3104.3; NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 7:20; L-N, 87.2). The context clearly confirms this meaning here (“slave,” “free,” etc). Cf HCSB, NET, NIV.+7:21Or although if indeed you are able to gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity, or although if indeed you are able to gain your freedom, make the most of it. Cf 1 Ti 6:2.+7:22Lit the one who was called by the Lord as a slave. ME. Cf TEV.+7:22Lit the one was called as a freedman. ME. Cf NLT.+7:23See note at 1 Co 6:20.+7:23Cf 1 Pt 1:18-19; Re 5:9.+7:23Or don’t become, or don’t show yourselves to be. My interpretation of γίνομαι ( ginomai) here (see DBL Greek, #1181.7; L-N, 41.1) is influenced by Eph 6:5-8 and Col 3:22-23. Paul’s point here is that irrespective of someone’s station or status, people are to conduct themselves according to a higher standard, which is applicable in all circumstances and situations, and conformity to which will be rewarded in the age to come.+7:23IT. See note at Mt 19:26.+7:23Cf Eph 6:5-8; Col 3:22-23.+7:24Lit Each one in what he was called/summoned. ME (see note at v 20).+7:24Or before God, or with God, or in fellowship with God, or as one accountable to God. Cf Eph 6:7-8; NIV here; translation and notes and the ISV at 2 Co 2:17.+7:25Lit the virgins. Cf ESV. For a synopsis of the primary interpretations of παρθένων ( parthenōn) here, see NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 7:25; ESS (1 Co 1-9), 285; and UBSHS (1 Co), 167.+7:26Or in view of the present distress. Cf v 29. Cf also NRSV.+7:26Or good, or advantageous, or fitting.+7:27Lit Have you been bound/tied...?. The obligation/tie signaled by δέω ( deō) can apply either to married or engaged couples (see Fee in ESS [1 Co 1-9], 290). Given Paul’s teaching on divorce in vv 10-16, he is most likely referring to betrothal/engagement (which also accords with Jewish bridal customs; cf Mt 1:19). Cf ESV, NLT, NRSV, RSV at 1 Co 7:36; and ESV at 1 Co 7:25 and 7:28.+7:27Cf Mt 1:19.+7:27Lit Don’t seek a loosing/release.+7:27Lit Have you been loosed...? See note in the first sentence of this verse.+7:28Lit and if the virgin.... Cf ESV.+7:29Lit This I am saying, brothers. ME. Cf ISV, NCV, NIV, TEV.+7:29Lit The appointed time is drawn to a close. ME (see BDAG, 498, sv καιρός 3.b.; UBSHS [1 Co], 170).+7:29Lit those who have wives as not having. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 170).+7:31Lit so that those who have wives should be like those who don’t have [wives], and those who weep like those who don’t weep, and those who rejoice like those who don’t rejoice, and those who buy like those who don’t possess, and those who avail themselves of the world not fully avail themselves [of it]. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 294-7; UBSHS [1 Co], 170-1).+7:34Cf REB, TEV.+7:34Lit the unmarried woman and the virgin. Cf ESV.+7:34Or to be holy, or to be consecrated.+7:35Lit This I speak for your own profit. ME. Cf TEV.+7:35Lit but for the sake of/with a view to what is seemly and constantly in service to the Lord without distraction. ME (see ANLEX, 181, sv εὐσχήμων 3; UBSHS [1 Co], 174). Cf most English translations.+7:36Lit toward his virgin. Cf ESV.+7:37Lit He who stands in his heart firm. ME(I/F) (see L-N, 31.7).+7:37Or will.+7:37Lit to go on keeping his virgin. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 178). Cf ESV, NCV, NRSV, RSV, TEV.+7:38This section can also be translated in a manner similar to how it is translated in the NIV footnote, which reads: “If anyone thinks he is not treating his daughter properly, and if she is getting along in years, and he feels she ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning. He should let her get married. But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control over his own will, and who has made up his mind to keep the virgin unmarried—this man also does the right thing. So then, he who gives his virgin in marriage does right, but he who does not give her in marriage does even better.”+7:39Lit falls asleep. ME(I/F) (see L-N, 23.104).+7:40Lit according to my own conviction/opinion/judgment. ME.+7:40Lit and I believe that I too have the Spirit of God. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 312; UBSHS [1 Co], 179).+8:2Lit has not known as it is necessary to know. Cf NRSV.+8:3ME (OTB) (see notes at Ga 4:9). Paul is making plays on words with “knowledge/knowing” here. At the same time, I felt it important here to maintain consistency in translation with Ga 4:9. Hence, I’ve included an appositional phrase in translation.+8:3Lit by him. Cf Ga 4:9; 1 Jn 2:3-6, 4:2-16.+8:4Lit we know that an idol is nothing in the world. ME (OTB) (see Dt 32:21 [note the parallelism; cf Ga 4:8]; Ps 31:6, Ps 96:5, 97:7, 115:4, 135:15; Is 2:8, 44:9, 48:5, 57:13; Jr 2:6, 10:5-14; Hab 2:18; 2 Ki 7:15; Jr 10:8, 14:22; Jnh 2:8; Ac 14:15). “Care should be taken not to translate this part of verse 4 in such a way as to conflict with verse 5, where Paul admits that other spiritual powers exist” ( UBSHS [1 Co], 185).+8:4Lit and that no one is God except one. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 185).+8:5Lit just as there are many gods and many lords. ME (OTB/H) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 185-6; notes at Ga 4:8-9.) Cf Dt 32:8 (see esp DSS, LXX; NET Bible Notes at Dt 32:8); Jb 1-2; Ps 82; Dn 10; Rm 8:38; Eph 1:21, 2:1-2, 3:10, 6:12; Col 1:16; 1 Pt 3:22; Jud 6; Re 7:1-3, 16:5.+8:6Lit to us. The dative here is most likely an ethical dative (“yet from our standpoint” [as Christians]), with the truth of the perspective assumed within the framework of the Biblical worldview.+8:6Lit Even though there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on the earth, just as there are many gods and many lords, but to us. ME (OTB/H) (see UBSHS [1 Co], 185-6; notes at Ga 4:8-9). The mismatch in languages here is significant.+8:6Lit from whom is the whole creation/all things. The preposition here indicates source. Cf Re 4:11.+8:7Lit this knowledge is not in all. The context indicates that Paul is speaking here of believers, and therefore knowledge being “in” someone means that it is rooted in them to the point that they can make decisions without defiling their conscience in the process; it refers to a “maturity of knowledge” ( UBSHS [1 Co], 186).+8:7Lit Some because of the custom until now of the idol, they eat as though food sacrificed on an idol. ME (see BDAG, 280, sv εἰδωλόθυτος; UBSHS [1 Co], 186). Cf most English translations. Again, there is significant mismatch in languages here.+8:8Cf Rm 14:10-12; Co 4:5; 1 Jn 3:21, 4:17.+8:9Lit a stumbling block to the weak. ME (see L-N, 88.307).+8:10Lit If someone sees you, the one who has knowledge, reclining [for a meal] in an idol’s temple, will not his conscience, being weak, be built up so as to eat the idol sacrifices? ME. The mismatch in languages here is obvious. Cf CJB, ISV, NET, NIV, NLT, TEV. See also note at 8:7 above.+8:12Cf Mt 18:1-6.+9:2Lit the seal of my apostleship. ME (see ESS [1 Co], 333; UBSHS [1 Co], 194). Cf CJB, NCV, NLT, TEV.+9:4Lit the right to eat and drink. ME (see BDAG, 396, sv ἐσθίω 1.e.α; NET Bible Notes, 1 Co 9:4). Cf NET.+9:8Lit Is it according to man...? ME(I/F). Cf ESV, ISV, NCV, NRSV, RSV.+9:8Lit says these things.+9:9Dt 25:4+9:10Lit who plows. ME(H) (see L-N, 43.4).+9:10Lit who threshes. ME(H) (see ANLEX, 44, sv ἀλοάω; L-N, 43.19).+9:10Cf 1 Ti 5:18.+9:11Drawing from BDAG in translation here (see BDAG, 624, sv μέγας 5).+9:11Lit your fleshly things. ME(I/F) (see BDAG, σαρκικός, 914 1.a; cf v 4 [lit “we have a right to food and drink, don’t we?”]). Cf NLT. ὑμῶν τὰ σαρκικὰ ( humōn ta sarkika) is in P2 (see BART Display), and has therefore been placed in clause-final for primary focus and stress.+9:12Lit so that we may not give any hindrance to the gospel of the Messiah. ME. Cf NET, NLT.+9:13Cf Dt 18:3-4; Nu 18:20-24.+9:13Cf Nu 18:5, 20-24; Dt 18:3-4.+9:14Cf Mt 10:10; Lk 10:7; Ga 6:6; 1 Ti 5:18.+9:15Lit And I do not write these things so that it might be thus with reference to me. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 204). Cf CJB, ESV, RSV, TEV.+9:15Lit the boast of me. ME. In this context, where “boasting” is used in a positive sense, and where “reward” based on voluntary sacrifice is in view (cf v 17), “honor” (see LALS, sv καύχημα; LEH LXX Lex, sv καύχημα; notes at 1 Th 2:19-20), based on praiseworthy conduct (see translation and notes at 2 Co 1:12-14, 5:12, 7:14, 8:2, 11:10), is the basic meaning of καύχημα ( kauchēma). Cf the LXX at Dt 26:19; Pr 16:31, 17:6, 19:8; Jr 13:11; Zc 12:7. Cf also Sir 1:11, 10:22, 25:6, 44:7, 45:8-12, 50:11.+9:15Cf 1 Th 2:19-20.+9:16Lit it is not to me a boast. ME (see previous note; translation and notes at 2 Co 1:14; v 18 below [ie, “boasting” approximates “reward”]). Cf 1 Co 3:8, 4:5.+9:16Lit If I proclaim the gospel, there is not for me a boast, for obligation is laid upon me. ME (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 353; UBSHS [1 Co], 205). The mismatch is languages is significant here. Cf Lk 17:7-10.+9:17Lit doing this. ME. Cf TEV.+9:17Cf TEV.+9:18Lit so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 206).+9:19Lit Even though I am free. ME (see UBSHS [1 Co], 207; cf notes at Ga 4:22). Cf NJB, TNT.+9:19Cf CJB, NCV, NIV, TEV.+9:20Or become. The aorist may be functioning gnomically here. Cf TEV.+9:20Or to, or among.+9:20Cf Ac 16:3, 21:23-26.+9:21Lit not being without God’s law.+9:21Cf Ga 6:2.+9:23Or for the sake of the gospel.+9:23Cf NAB.+9:23Lit so that I may become a sharer of it. ME(OTB)/IT (see BDAG, 952, συγκοινωνός; ESS [1 Co 1-9], 363; notes at Mk 1:15). Cf Rm 5:1-5, 8:20-25; 1 Co 1:7; 2 Co 1:5-7; Php 3:10-14 (note how Paul in Php 3 moves from the hope of the resurrection [cf “imperishable crown” in v 25 here] to the race analogy; very similar to what we see here); 1 Th 2:19-20, 4:13-18; 1 Ti 4:10; Heb 11:39-40.+9:25Cf Ps 21:3-4, 103:4; Th 2:19; 2 Ti 4:8; Heb 2:9; Jm 1:12; 1 Pt 5:4; Re 2:10, 3:11.+9:26Lit as not without aim. ME ( UBSHS [1 Co], 212). Cf CJB, TEV. This may also be a litotes (emphatic affirmation, accomplished by denying the opposite) (see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 367).+9:26Lit not beating the air. ME ( UBSHS [1 Co], 212). Cf TEV. This may also be a litotes (emphatic affirmation, accomplished by denying the opposite; see ESS [1 Co 1-9], 367).+9:27Cf Rm 6:11-14, 8:13; Ga 5:16; Heb 12:4.
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