We are always distinguishing the negotiables from the non-negotiables. We are always trying to separate our primary purpose from our secondary desires. In our families, in our work, in all of our lives, we are always discerning when we can compromise from when we have to hold fast.
The Apostle Paul said that he had become all things to all people. By that he meant that he made a distinction between the message and the method. He never changed the core message of salvation through Jesus Christ. However, he was willing to change his approach to the different people groups he met in order to allow them to better receive the message.
Paul’s first motivation was the gospel of Jesus Christ. He had personally experienced the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ to change lives. The gospel was so important to him that he would not allow trifling differences of opinion to interfere with the power of the gospel message.
Pal’s other motivation was his love for people. Despite Paul’s sometimes abrasive personality, he cared deeply for the people. He cared about them enough to not permit minor differences to prevent him from sharing with them the news that could save their souls.
In our sermon this Sunday, we will talk about the difference between things that are negotiable and things that are non-negotiable, and how to be all things to all people.