Wednesday 15 March 2023

I must be honest: most sport bores me. This includes what appears to be a worldwide obsession with football. I was never very good at sport, and I certainly didn’t win any prizes. However, I take a keen interest in understanding it and knowing results, recognising names and sometimes obscure details. Why would I do such a thing if I have no interest?

It is quite simple. Over 40 years of active ministry I found that the discussion of sport of any kind gave me the opening into a conversation with people who would normally never engage with me. When I have an awareness of what others find interesting, I can converse with them and can share something of the gospel with them, if only by my lifestyle and faith.

In this passage, Paul is trying to explain his method of mission. He goes to where people are and starts from their position. It is seen often in the accounts of Paul found in the book of Acts: when he goes to the synagogues and speaks (Acts 13:13-18); when he meets people who sought to pray in Philippi (Acts 16:11-15); and when he meets with the debaters in Athens ( Acts 17:22-28). On each of these occasions Paul went to where people gathered, or at least he took an interest in what people were doing. It was from these beginnings that he was able to share the good news. By coming alongside people, it allowed Paul to get close and to proclaim the gospel in a way they could understand.

Throughout this letter Paul explains his ministry when the Corinthians have been questioning his credentials. He states that the prime reason for taking this approach is they too may share the blessings of Christ.

Interestingly, Paul finishes this section with an image of sport (verses 24-27). It is a favourite theme of Paul throughout his letters and it is also another example of starting with the things that interest people and shows what he has just been expressing.

To Ponder:

• How can you be a blessing to others?
• What does ‘do it all for the sake of the gospel’ mean today?
• How does 'becoming all things to all people' not end up in compromise?

Prayer

Gracious God, help me to be open to share good news and blessings this day.