By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  June 17 2020

Read 1 Corinthians 9:1-23.

These days, it seems everyone wants to talk about social justice, but today’s idea of social justice often has little to do with what the Bible affirms as true justice. Society’s justice is usually some form of socialism, communism, or liberalism, not the way of Jesus. This so-called justice could breed entitlement in some and bitterness in others. Praise God, our Lord’s idea of social justice is much, much better.

Social justice Jesus’ way happens when we recognize that God owns everything and we are just managers. We are stewards entrusted by God to manage our bodies, our money, our possessions, our time, and our gifts. All of these are managed for God and on God’s behalf.

Paul understood that nothing he had was his own—not even his life. That’s why he determined to lay it all down for the sake of the Gospel; he let God command his body, his money, his time, his words, his gifts—everything. “I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible” (1 Corinthians 9:19). Now just imagine if we all gave of ourselves in this way for the Lord’s work! True social justice would be realized as we bless others because God has blessed us, not under compulsion, but because our reward is in heaven. When God takes hold of everything we have, we will not be concerned about our fair share but focused on living out God’s loving purposes.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the example of Paul. I know nothing I have is my own. Help me to be a good steward, completely focused on Your Kingdom mission so that many might come to You and grow in faith as You grow mine. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible” (1 Corinthians 9:19).