Today’s passage: 1 Corinthians 4:1-7
Helpful thoughts:
- In contrast to the way many of the Christians in Corinth were regarding their preachers, Paul knew they were simply servants of Jesus and stewards of the content of God’s Word (The “mysteries” of God).
- Celebrities (Or pastors preoccupied with maintaining “celebrity status”) are tasked with pleasing their fans. Servants and stewards answer to their Master.
- “It is the Lord who judges me.” (Verse 4)
- God knows all things, including the motives behind our actions. And, He alone has the authority to judge.
Questions to consider:
- Whoever we obey is truly functioning as our master. How are you doing in your fight against the fear of man? In what situations do you find it the hardest to overcome the opinions of people in order to serve the Lord?
- What is the word which begins with “c” near the end of verse 5? Why does this say “commendation” instead of “condemnation?” What is true for every Christian concerning judgment (Romans 8:1)?
- What is God’s unit of measurement for his servants and stewards (Verse 2)? If Paul or Apollos had gotten to heaven wearing a badge that said, “Corinthian church’s favorite preacher,” why wouldn’t that have been a direct correlation with what God is looking for?