The city of Corinth sat on a strategic location, a narrow strip of land joining the mainland to southern Greece. Goods flowed north and south, east and west. Owners would often drag their ships across the isthmus, or have their cargo transported to another ship, thus shortening the route between Italy and Asia. As a result of commerce the city prospered and attracted people from from all over the Mediterranean world.

Paul started a church in Corinth. Alongside his friends Priscilla and Aquila, Paul worked at tentmaking and spreading the good news of Jesus. The church took root and grew, finding converts among the many different people groups in this cosmopolitan city.

But in an area packed with idols, temples to various gods and all manner of religious practices, those who joined carried spiritual baggage. Paul spent a great deal of time instructing on how to get along with friends, employers, customers, venders, and family members who failed to understand leaving a perfectly good religion to follow Jesus.

Paul taught a specific strategy: Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.

Paul made himself unoffensive so that the message of grace through Jesus Christ might be the only thing his audience wrestled with. He worked hard, dealt honestly with his customers, built quality tents, engaged amicably with all who passed by—and preached the gospel without compromise. Plenty of people took issue with his message (he literally lost his head over it) but Paul took pains to ensure no one took issue with him.

No offense at the grocery store. No offense at the DMV. No offense with neighbors. No offense on social media or with a work colleague. No offense creates a solid platform to talk about Jesus. People may blame you for the message, but they’re really wrestling with Jesus. Like Paul, give no offense, let them struggle, and many will find their way to Jesus.

1 Corinthians 10:32 – 11:1

Photo by Belinda Fewings