1 Cor 4:1 is a key verse. The Corinthians had factionalized and become prideful over their favorite teacher (1 Cor 1:12). Paul told them that each man who had ministered there had fulfilled a particular task for a particular season. He had birthed them and laid a foundation which Apollos later built on...and even Peter built on. It would be untrue to say that Apollos was the smarter guy because he taught deeper truth. He taught what he could because of what they had already learned from Paul. It would be unfair to say that Paul was a simpleton since he did not teach as deeply as Apollos. (Paul kept it simple intentionally because of their maturity in the Lord) The truth is...each man did what he needed to do to fulfill the ministry he had at the time and season in the life of that church.
1 Cor 4:1 says it again...don't think of us as anything because we are servants of Christ and stewards (managers) of the mysteries of God. In other words...we are simply the errand boys...delivering God's intended message for the hour to the people and are in no way responsible for the content. Our Master is responsible for the content. We are delivering the message and doing as we are told.
In that context, it is pretty dificult to get too proud of your favorite "errand boy." Do you say, "my slave is more articulate than your slave?" (Tough to be proud there.) And that is by design. Paul said, when you regard us (consider us)...see us in this manner.
Paul noted that this was enough for the preacher. It does not matter if the preacher is examined by the people and is found to be sufficient (1 Cor 4:3-4)...because, in the end, the Lord judges (1 Cor 4:5) and the standard is faithfulness to Him (1 Cor 4:2), not the popular vote.
The next call Paul extends (using a little sarcasm, too) is for the people to start thinking of themselves as the apostle considered himself (1 Cor 4:8-13). Then, once you rediscover where you are supposed to be (in the spiritual economy), look to the example in Paul and imitate him (1 Cor 4:16). Don't miss the word imitate. To this point, much of the issues with pride have revolved around "talk." In the end, words don't get it done. The only thing that matters is the effort. A talk...without a walk...is just empty, prideful chatter. The Kingdom of God is not about such cheap things. It is about power (1 Cor 4:19-20). Not gaining power, but in power displayed. It is about setting ones mind on Christ as Lord and living accordingly...walking in the power of Christ daily. With God as judge, Paul tells the church that he will come there soon if the Lord allows and then there will be a chance to see if his message is about talk or walk...about words or power.
As we apply this today..perhaps we can learn something here... not about the philosophy of a man, but about the actions that come out of the philosophy. Many people point to the great preachers. Some say, "I wish that I had a ministry like Paul's...or I wish I could preach like Spurgeon," or, I wish I knew all the stuff that "so and so" does. In the end though...if we really admire them and want to be as effective as they are, we have to do what they do/did...not being fooled by those who have nothing to show for their ministry except talk. By the way, if everyone imitated what you do...would it bear out "words" or "power?"
Proverbs 19:18 is the takeaway today. (it really goes with Proverbs 19:19 also...since they accentuate the same truth). Verse 18 has an imperative..."Discipline" your son. It is not a suggestion but is the opposite of passive parenting. To withhold discipline is to (by implication) desire his death...because an undisciplined life (a life lived without restraint and intentional pursuit of godliness) is a recipe for separation from God. [Could say more...but will probably let that just soak in.]
Grace,
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2 comments:
Being a PK, I've heard comments about my dad and comparing him to the previous pastor one way or another. I appreciate Paul clarifying that one messanger should not be compared to the next based on the message. God has a plan for His bride, and His message, if given by His direction, is always perfect.
A lot of what I felt was spoken in yesterdays post. I am still soaking it all in from yesterday:). But I am one to focus on power, words are sharp and anyone can talk the talk (believe me I've done it) but can we walk the walk. That is the true test. I am guilty of being one of those people who wish I knew as much as someone who has gone to seminary or Jason who is so full of knowledge. But I have been blessed by God to be surrounded by people who are full of spiritual knowledge and I am growing, so I know God will get me ready however He sees fit for His journey for my life.
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