1 Corinthians 9:16

If I proclaim the good news, I have nothing to boast of, for I am compelled to do so. Woe is me if I do not share it!

Open English Bible (US)

In The King James Version

For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

In Context

15I, however, have not availed myself of any of these rights. I am not saying this to secure such an arrangement for myself; indeed, I would far rather die – Nobody will make my boast a vain one!

17If I do this work willingly, I have a reward; but, if unwillingly, I have been charged to perform a duty.

Read all of 1 Corinthians 9

Cross References

Amos 3:8The lion has roared; who does not fear? The Lord God has spoken; who will not prophesy?

Matthew 25:16The servant who had received the five bags of gold went at once and traded with it, and made another five bags.

Acts 4:20for we cannot help speaking of what we have seen and heard.”

Acts 9:15But the Lord said to him, “Go, for this man is my chosen instrument to uphold my name before the Gentiles and their kings, and the people of Israel.

Matthew Henry on 1 Corinthians 9:16-19

The Apostle's Devotedness. ( a. d. 57.) 15 But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. 16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! 17 For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me. 18 What is… Read the whole commentary →

This Verse In Other Editions

Study 1 Corinthians 9:16