From Tentmaker to Evangelist: Trusting God in Times of Transition

From Tentmaker to Evangelist: Trusting God in Times of Transition

The story of Paul in Corinth is one of ordinary work, persistent preaching, rejection, and eventual breakthrough. It reminds us that the work of the Gospel often takes root in the most humble of places—like a workshop for tentmaking—and in the most difficult of moments, when rejection threatens to silence the message.

Paul’s Purpose in the Midst of Change

Paul’s arrival in Corinth was not planned by ease or luxury. He meets Aquila and Priscilla, fellow Jews recently expelled from Rome due to an imperial edict. Far from glamorous, their livelihood as tentmakers becomes Paul’s as well. He joins them not just in labor but in community and purpose. Even while earning his living with his hands, Paul remains steadfast in his mission: entering the synagogue each Sabbath to preach Christ crucified and risen.

But rejection quickly follows. When many Jews resist his message, Paul makes a bold declaration: “Your blood be on your heads! I am clear of responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” This isn’t bitterness—it’s clarity. It’s the moment when Paul pivots fully toward those who are ready to receive the Good News.

Grief That Turns to Joy

In the Gospel of John, Jesus prepares his disciples for the emotional disorientation of the cross and resurrection. “A little while and you will no longer see me… and again a little while later and you will see me.” This cryptic language confuses the disciples. But Jesus clarifies that what appears to be loss will lead to greater joy. “You will weep and mourn… but your grief will become joy.”

This joy is not circumstantial—it is resurrection joy. It is the kind that follows grief with transformation. Just as Paul’s rejection by one group led to the conversion of many Gentiles, the disciples’ sorrow at Jesus’ death would be overturned by the power of the resurrection.

God’s Work in the Overlooked

Crispus, a synagogue official, believes. His household follows. Many Corinthians hear and are baptized. What began in resistance now bears abundant fruit. What looked like a setback—Paul leaving the synagogue—becomes the setting for spiritual renewal. God uses transitions, discomforts, and even professional skill (tentmaking!) to advance His Kingdom.

And in the background of Paul’s labor is the quiet echo of Christ’s promise: sorrow will not be the end of the story. Rejection will not be the last word. For those who persevere in mission and faith, God transforms mourning into joy.