1 Corinthians 4

Summary

 

1 Corinthians 4 addresses the themes of humility, faithful stewardship, and the need for proper judgment. Paul encourages the Corinthians to embrace a humble attitude, avoid premature judgments, and follow the example set by faithful servants of Christ. The chapter highlights Paul's concern for their spiritual well-being and emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel in their lives.

 

1. Servants of Christ (1 Corinthians 4:1-5): Paul emphasizes that he and other leaders are servants and stewards of the mysteries of God. He stresses the importance of faithfulness in such servants and points out that only God is the ultimate judge. The Corinthians are cautioned against passing premature judgments on their leaders.

2. Irony Regarding the Corinthian Attitude (1 Corinthians 4:6-13): Paul uses irony to highlight the Corinthians' arrogance and self-satisfaction. He contrasts their pride with the humble and often suffering condition of the apostles. He urges them to imitate him as he imitates Christ and not to think too highly of themselves.

3. A Fatherly Tone (1 Corinthians 4:14-21): Paul adopts a more fatherly tone, expressing his concern for the Corinthians. He reminds them that he became their father in Christ through the Gospel. He plans to send Timothy to remind them of his ways in Christ. Paul asserts that the kingdom of God is not about talk but power, challenging the Corinthians to examine the nature of their faith.

 

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