The Greek noun egkope means a hindrance, obstacle, or interruption — from en (in) and kopto (to cut). It conveys the image of something cut into one's path, blocking forward progress. Paul uses it in 1 Corinthians 9:12 to describe the kind of obstacle that would impede the gospel.
Paul is unusually sensitive to anything that might create a egkope — a stumbling block to the gospel's advance. In 1 Corinthians 9:12, he says he endures everything 'rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.' His willingness to waive his apostolic rights (support, food, marriage) is driven by a single concern: no hindrance to the message. This is the architecture of missional sacrifice — not earning salvation, but removing obstacles between the lost and the gospel. Believers are called to examine their lives for egkopai: habits, attitudes, relationships that cut into others' path toward Christ.