To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.
Ver. 21. That I might gain them] A metaphor from merchants, Qui κερδαινοντες ου κοπιωσι, who are never weary of taking money. (Naz.) St Paul harps much upon this string, out of a strong desire of winning souls to God. Ministers must turn themselves into all shapes and fashions both of spirit and speech to gain souls to God. Christ useth every engine of wisdom (παση σοφιας μηχανη, saith Clemens Alexand.) that he may convert some. Ministers should labour to be masters of their people's affections, δημαγωγοι, as the Athenian orators were called, i.e. people leaders.