1 Corinthians 9:16

If I tell the Good News, I have nothing to boast of, for I can but do so. Woe is me if I do not tell it!

Twentieth Century New Testament

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 shall 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

Matthew 25:16The man who had received the three thousand pounds went at once and traded with it, and made another three thousand.

Acts 4:20Judge for yourselves, for 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