Community Groups

Series: 1 Corinthians

Title: "Laying Down Rights"

Text: 1 Corinthians 9:1-18

Week: 10 of 10

Outline:

I. The Right to Be Respected (vv. 1–3)

II. The Right to Receive Support (vv. 4–14)

III. The Resolve to Lay Down Rights (vv. 12b–18)

My Story

1. When have you had to let go of a personal right or freedom for the sake of someone else’s spiritual growth or well-being?

2. Are there habits or behaviors in your life that could cause confusion for others about your faith?

3. What inspired or challenged you in the sermon this week? What raised questions for you?

Digging Deeper

1. Read 1 Cor 9:1-3.  Why do you think Paul feels the need to defend his apostleship here, and what does that teach us about the balance between humility and speaking the truth when misunderstood or criticized?

2. Read 1 Cor 9:4-14. Paul argues clearly that those who serve the gospel should receive support, so why do you think he gave up that right in Corinth?

How should this shape our view of generosity and sacrifice in ministry today?

3. Read 1 Cor 9:12b-18. Paul’s passion is to remove every obstacle to the gospel, even if it means sacrificing his own comfort. What kinds of “obstacles” might we unintentionally put in front of others today?

What rights or preferences might God be calling you to hold loosely for the sake of someone else’s salvation or spiritual growth?

4. Are there any questions this text raises for you that were not addressed in the guide? If so, what questions do you have?