The UBS Greek text, followed by all translations we have consulted, divides verse 17 into two halves. Its structure is as follows: “For if I do this voluntarily, I have a reward; but if (I do it) involuntarily, I have been entrusted with a commission.” The difficulty with this structure is that the words For and but, and especially the related words translated of my own will, lead the reader to expect a contrast in the last part of each line. However, no contrast is clearly expressed in the last part of the verse. We can resolve this problem if the first part of verse 18 is linked with verse 17. This interpretation is the basis for Phillips‘ translation: “If I do this work because I choose to do so, then I am entitled to a reward. But if it is no choice of mine, but a sacred responsibility put on me, what can I expect in the way of reward?” Phillips‘ translation makes good sense in this context. Good News Bible‘s rendering is quite similar.

Have a reward may be rendered as “to receive wages.”

I am entrusted with a commission means here “God has appointed me to a position of responsibility.” The meaning of entrusted is similar to that of “faithful” in 1.9 and “trustworthy” in 4.2.

Reward in verse 18 is the more general meaning preferred by many translators; Revised English Bible has “pay.” Reward makes good sense in the present context. Paul does receive a reward, but of a kind different from financial support. The word translated reward sometimes has the more specific meaning of “something extra.”

Make … free of charge can be rendered as “preach the gospel without asking for any money.”

Not making full use of my right can be translated as “I do not claim my rights” or “I do not insist on receiving my rights.” My right probably refers, not to Paul’s general authority as an apostle, but more specifically to his right to be supported by the churches.

In the gospel is too literal. “In preaching the gospel” is a preferable rendering, or “as I work preaching the gospel (or, Good News).”

Quoted with permission from Ellingworth, Paul and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, 2nd edition. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1985/1994. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .