A Daily Purpose

Bible Study & Devotional 227

Read Today’s Assigned Passages 

Guiding Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:22  ‘To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means, I might save some.’ 

Syncretism

Written by Torrie Slaughter

I am an advocate for listening carefully to the needs of those entrusted to you. But, how do we gain that information? Through relationship, conversation, and continual prayer. 

The Apostle Paul made a powerfully impactful statement in 1 Corinthians 9:20-23. His posture and desire for winning souls are not only Christ-like but Holy Spirit-filled. We should all seek to mimic these characteristics to humble ourselves before others and invite them to fellowship with Jesus. 

However, being all things to all people without the motivation to win souls is arrogant and ungodly. 

If we press in and think carefully about the Apostle Paul’s statements, we cannot miss his disciplined lifestyle.

• He was unmarried. (1 Corinthians 7:8) 
• He traveled as the Holy Spirit led (Acts 13-14), and 
• He was joyful while being shipwrecked, beaten, and imprisoned (2 Corinthians 11:25, Acts 16:22).

I’m not sure about you but, I’ve witnessed an attitude shift of those who didn’t get the font they wanted on a flyer. So to share in a sacrificial camaraderie with micro-managers is not my idea of spreading the Gospel.

Platform

Knowing the audience also means understanding the specific needs of the people you encounter. It is even wiser if we all undergo self-evaluation to keep a fresh evolving perspective. (1 Corinthians 9:26)

Was the Apostle Paul advocating for syncretism? 

In 1 Corinthians 9:20-23, it would appear that he is. Syncretism is the combining of different beliefs while blending practices of various schools of thought. But if we look back at verse 19, Paul began his statement by saying he is free and belongs to no one. Paul also fully identifies as a bondservant of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:1). 

 Nope, Not At All…

It is safe to say that the Apostle Paul knew who He was in Christ Jesus, and his faith was firmly anchored. He recognized how to train his thoughts to obey Jesus,(2 Corinthians 10:5) which meant that Paul was fully aware of how the mind controlled every aspect of behavior. 

Squad Goals

If we desire to be all things and meet people where they are, we must have the discipline of Paul. He strived to be like Jesus, which is our ultimate goal. Every situation allows us to make a choice. What has love told you to do? 

Prayer: Lord, we know that your answer will deliver us from all our fears as we seek you. Keep us aligned with your will so that we do not go astray. We take refuge in your goodness and mercy. Thank you for being our Abba Father and going before us as we navigate this life. Amen

The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Nehemiah 9:22-10:39, 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13, Psalm 34:1-10, Proverbs 21:13

Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan