1 Corinthians 4:1–3: Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself.
So, the main issue is not, “Is Paul popular?” or, “Is Apollos a better preacher than Paul?” The main issue is, “Have Paul, Apollos, and Peter been faithful to do the work God assigned to them?” If a servant of God is faithful in his personal life, in his home, and in his ministry of the Word, then he is a good steward and will be adequately rewarded. But a servant is constantly being judged. There is always somebody criticizing something he does. Paul pointed out that there are three judgments in the life of the steward. Paul did not get upset when people criticized him, for he knew that his Master’s judgment was far more important. The phrase man’s judgment is literally “man’s day.” This is in contrast to God’s day of judgment yet to come. Paul knew nothing that was amiss in his life and ministry, but even that did not excuse him. Sometimes we do not really know ourselves. There can be a fine line between a clear conscience and a self-righteous attitude, so we must beware. 1
Application
- Are you a faithful servant in your personal life, in your home, and in your church?
- What area needs the most attention? What action will you take today?
Thought to Share
A servant of God is not graded on performance, but on faithfulness. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, teach me through life’s difficulties how to become a faithful servant for You.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
