“I am made all things to all men.”
(1Cor.9:19-23)
Paul was not speaking of spiritual compromise or being a chameleon. The text is not speaking of inward convictions, but rather, outward conditions. He’s discussing adapting to various situations. A haughty spirit will reject this humble approach. This giant of a man, both in intellect and spirituality, could fit in, no matter what the culture or custom. To do this, one must know people. He must be familiar with a variety of backgrounds. This takes reading, observance, and knowing a little bit about a lot of things. Anyone can do this.
A Christian should be able to sit with paupers or walk with kings and be comfortable with both. Such a person will be misunderstood and maligned, many times from his own ranks. If you condescend to the ignorant, you’re patronizing them; if, on the other hand, you ascend to sit with the elite, you’re proud. Therefore, if you’re going to attempt to help all men, as in Paul’s example, you will do it at your own expense, and at the risk of being criticized for your seeming inconsistencies.
Adjustment necessitates change, but that requires courage.
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