Note 1 at 1 Cor. 9:1: Chapter 9 is a continuation of Paul's teaching on preferring the weaker brother (see notes 2 & 4 at 1 Cor. 8:1, p. 898) which he began in chapter 8. In fact, he continues this same teaching all the way through the end of chapter 10 (1 Cor. 10:14-33).

In this chapter, Paul uses personal examples to show how he had applied this truth in many areas of his life. In verse four, he mentions how he had refused to take money for preaching the gospel and then expounds on this point in verses 6-18. In verse 5 he mentions his celibacy as an example of something he had personally given up for the good of others. In verse 20, he relates how he had tried to appease the legalistic Jews and in verse 21 how he had tried to relate to the lawless Gentiles. Verse 22 sums it all up that he had tried to become all things to all men.

This is not to say that Paul didn't "draw the line" at times and fight for his freedoms. Paul was very uncompromising at times. But there has to be a balance (see note 14 at 1 Cor. 8:9, p. 901).

Note 2 at 1 Cor. 9:1: Paul is using himself as an example of the attitude he taught in the previous chapter. If he as an apostle, free born, having seen the Lord Jesus, and the one responsible for their salvation, had humbled himself in this area, then certainly every one of them should do the same.