1 Cor. 8:1-13 Paul reminds the believers that idols represent ‘gods’ that don’t really exist; but he advises caution when eating anything that others consider to be food for offering to idols.
1 Cor. 9:1-23 Paul answers those who have accused him of making money from new converts. He points out that he has always worked to pay his way.
Paul is working as a tentmaker with Aquila and Priscilla in Ephesus as he writes this letter (see Acts 18:1-3, 19, 26, 19:1 & 1 Corinthians 16:19).
Running the Race - the London Marathon
1 Cor. 9:24-27 Paul likens the Christian life to running a race. “All those who compete in the games use self-control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed” (1 Corinthians 9:25)