1 Corinthians 9:22 - Exposition

To the weak. His whole argument here is a plea for condescension to the infirmities of weak converts. A similar condescension to their prejudices might be necessary to win them to Christianity at all ( 1 Corinthians 8:13 ; "We that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves," Romans 15:1 ). St. Paul often touches on our duties to weak brethren ( 1 Corinthians 8:7 ; Romans 14:1 ; 1 Thessalonians 5:14 ; Acts 20:35 ). All things to all men. He repeats the same principle in 1 Corinthians 10:33 , "I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved;" and once more, at the end of his course ( 2 Timothy 2:10 ). This condescension laid him open to the malicious attacks of religious enemies ( Galatians 1:10 ). But not on that account would St. Paul ever be led to abandon the fruitful aid of that universal sympathy and tolerance which is one of the best tests of Christian love. That I might by all means save some. He adds this explanation of the motive of his condescension to various scruples συγατάβασις ) lest any should accuse him of men.pleasing, as some of his Galatian opponents had done ( Galatians 1:10 ). In his desire to win souls he acted with the wisdom and sympathy taught by experience, suppressing himself.