Why is Paul defending his apostleship in 1 Corinthians 9?
Paul defended his apostleship because the Corinthian believers were carnal, saved out of idolatry and immorality, and still drawn back to their old life. Especially the Jewish element challenged his authority, asking who he thought he was, calling him an imposter who had not walked with Jesus or spent three years with Peter.
Les teaches that 1 Corinthians 9 begins with Paul again defending his apostleship to these carnal believers at Corinth. He explains that they were in a city of abject idolatry and horrible immorality, and although they had come out as believers, there was still a draw back into the old life. Consequently, as Paul writes, he has to defend his apostleship. Les suggests the Jewish element in Corinth especially likely challenged him, saying, “Who do you think you are? You’re just an imposter. You didn’t walk with Jesus of Nazareth. You didn’t spend three years with Him like Peter did.” Les also notes that this is the Church Age, as the Body of Christ is being called out and awaited until it is complete.
Why did Paul constantly have to defend his apostleship to the Corinthians?
Paul had to defend his apostleship because the Corinthian congregation was divided. Some claimed they followed Peter or Apollos, and some dismissed Paul as a fake or imposter. They argued Peter had authority because he walked with Jesus for three years, while Paul had not, so Paul continually reaffirmed his apostolic calling.
Is Paul's teaching about rewards in 1 Corinthians 9 his own idea or inspired by the Holy Spirit?
Paul's teaching about rewards in 1 Corinthians 9 is by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, not merely his own human idea. It is what God wants believers to understand, confirming that Paul's instruction about rewards carries divine authority rather than being simply man's opinion.
More Questions
Who challenged Paul's apostleship in Corinth and what did they say?
The Jewish element in Corinth challenged Paul's apostleship by asking who he thought he was and calling him an imposter.