1. Five Steps For Success In Service To God 1 Corinthians 9:12-27

2. “Endure All Things” (v. 12)  Jesus, our example (1 Peter 2:21-24; 1 Cor. 11:1)  We are to endure also. Yet, so many fail so easily. Remember Demas (2 Tim. 4:10)

3. “It Would Be Better For Me To Die” (vv. 15-17)  Paul’s service began immediately (Acts 26:19; 9:20)  He would rather die than be a part of anything less  He felt a necessity (“woe is me”)  He recognized that his value in service was by preaching to others

4. “I Have Made Myself A Servant To All” (v. 19)  Our Lord came to serve (Mt. 20:28)  Paul operated under the words of the Lord (Acts 20:35)  Yet, we gather together and expect to be served!  It is not “what can I give,” it is “what can I get!”

5. “I Have Become All Things To All Men” (v. 22)  Paul understood the preferences and opinions of others and, out of respect, tried not to violate them (1 Cor. 10:23- 33)  Yet, Paul was staying within New Testament limits  It does not mean that he would become a drunkard to save drunkards  There is to be no sin

6. “I Discipline My Body And Bring It Into Subjection” (v. 27)  Paul was determined to defeat all fleshly appetites. We make choices (Rom. 6:16)  Self-control is a key element in successful service (Col. 3:1-4)  Many fail due to little self-control  They often do not even try

7. Conclusion  Endure all things  Recognize your value  Become a servant  Become all things  Be in subjection to God