Paul uses himself as an example here though only briefly. In fact, he uses only one verse to describe his own attitude and conduct here, not wanting to overemphasize himself. In verse 17, Paul is using a strong image. The verb that is translated "poured out" is a technical word for a certain part of a sacrificial offering. In performing such an offering, first, a valuable animal would be killed and then burnt on the altar. Following this sacrifice, the priest would make an additional offering called a drink offering. He would take a cup of wine and pour it on the altar, thus pouring it on the sacrifice that was already burning because the altar was hot and the drink offering would immediately disappear in a puff of steam.
