To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.

1 Corinthians 9:22 (NIV)

Is Paul telling us to do worldly things like hang out in bars and strip clubs to try and win people for Christ? If we consider this verse without context, it certainly looks like it. However, within context, Paul explains to the Corinthians why his life has been so challenging. Instead of telling the Jews how wrong they were about the law and following it, Paul followed it even though it had no impact on his salvation. By doing so, Paul demonstrated Christ’s love for the Jews. For example, when Timothy was circumcised, it was done to avoid offending the Jews, so they might be saved. Similarly, Paul doesn’t collect a salary or take a wife with him to not burden the churches. Consider what Paul said in 2 Corinthians 6:15.

What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?

2 Corinthians 6:15 (NIV)

Considering this verse, it’s clear that Paul wasn’t advocating worldly behavior from Christians. Coupled with what Paul said to the Romans, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18 NIV), we know that Paul wasn’t telling us to hang out and do worldly things. Indeed, Hebrews 12:14 gives us this insight.

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

Hebrews 12:14 (NIV)

What we can do, however, is be empathic, listen, and be kind to others without compromising our faith.

Do you know God? God knows you, and he loves you. He sees you as significant because you are. No one is insignificant to Him. He’s with you today, and he wants you to know him. Jesus died for your sins and mine so we could be free of guilt, freed from death, and live eternally with him. Eternal salvation is just a prayer away.

Pray this prayer with me to accept the gift of salvation:

Lord Jesus, forgive me for all my sins. I repent from my ways. Wash me in your blood and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I believe you died on the cross and were buried, and God the Father raised you from the dead on the third day. Right now, Lord Jesus, I open the door to my heart and receive you into my heart as my Lord and personal Savior. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer, then congratulations! You are on the first step of a brand new life. Allow me to be the first to welcome you to my family, the family of God. There are abundant resources available online for new Christians. You can visit here for more information on what to do next. You can also leave me a comment, and I’ll do my best to help you on the next step of this incredible journey.