14 In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.(A)

15 But I have not used any of these rights.(B) And I am not writing this in the hope that you will do such things for me, for I would rather die than allow anyone to deprive me of this boast.(C) 16 For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach.(D) Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! 17 If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward;(E) if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me.(F) 18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge,(G) and so not make full use of my rights(H) as a preacher of the gospel.

Paul’s Use of His Freedom

19 Though I am free(I) and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone,(J) to win as many as possible.(K)

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14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.

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 my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.

19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

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