Episode 178 - "Servants and Stewards" - 1 Corinthians 4:1-7

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. 4 For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. 5 Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God.

6 I have applied all these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, brothers, that you may learn by us not to go beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up in favor of one against another. 7 For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?

Paul is not yet finished with his attempt to dismantle any rationalization these believers might use to exalt the apostles or themselves above others. Paul tells them to regard Apollos, Cephas, and himself as “servants of Christ.” (v. 1) In a culture that had slaves and various levels of status in the world, Paul tells them to put “us” in the lowest level. Secondly, they have a responsibility beyond doing whatever Christ requires of them. He adds that they are “stewards of the mysteries of God.” (v. 1) He adds that it is “required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (v. 2) If one is responsible for guarding and dispensing something of value, they better manage it well.

Concerning this responsibility, it is not something that he can use to exalt himself over others. Only Christ is a true and just judge over whether Paul has fulfilled that responsibility or not. Paraphrasing verse 4, “Even if I think I’ve done a great job as this steward, my opinion of myself counts for nothing with Christ.”

Verse 5 is the application for them. I read this as Paul saying, “Mind yourself and your service to the Lord. Don’t exalt anyone including yourself above others because the day is coming when the perfect judge will pronounce judgment and will accurately commend each one according to their motives.”

Paul continues in verse 6 by explaining that he is trying to show them by example. So, if they respect him and the others, they should not be arrogant toward others. He, Apollos, and Cephas aren’t boasting to others. So, why should they?

So, what is the point of verse 7? Why would anyone boast about something they didn’t receive? The point is that everything they have is a gift from God. Nothing within themselves is some special quality inherent to them. Therefore, Paul is asking them rhetorically, “Why are you boasting about something as if you were a better person than someone else? Everything you have has been given to you. God has gifted you and gifted your brothers and sisters in Christ.”

Prayer: Father - Help us use the gifts you’ve given us to serve others humbly. Help us to be good stewards of what you’ve entrusted to us.