1 Corinthians 4

Paul continues addressing the divisions in the Corinthian church by highlighting the humility required of spiritual leaders. He describes himself and Apollos as: Servants ("under rowers") Stewards (managers of God’s household) Paul contrasts the Corinthians’ pride with his own suffering and lowly position, even expecting death for his ministry (vv. 8–13). His message: Christian leaders are not to be idolized, and believers should not compete but live in unity and humility.

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Session 5 – 1 Corinthians 4

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The vision of Ozark Christian College is to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide. The mission of Ozark Christian College is to train men and women for Christian service as a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education.

Classroom Instructions

Section 5

17:30

Session 5 – 1 Corinthians 4

Summary: T o drive home his point about the absurdity of the Corinthian believers

being competitive with each other based on their association with him or

Apollos, Paul describes the difficulty of his life as a messenger of God.

Paul uses two keywords to describe the work he and Apollos do to highlight humility:

● Servants (hupéretés) – literally "under rower”

● Stewards (oikonomos) – household manager

Paul feels certain that his work as God’ s messenger will end in his death. (verses 8-13)

After four chapters of arguments about the spiritual unity of the church and the humility

of its leaders, there should be no room for competition between brothers and sisters in

Christ.

Questions for Reflection/Discussion:

-How does Paul’ s description of himself as a servant who is destined for martyrdom

differ from the image of a minister in your context?

-What would it look like for you to embrace a view of yourself as a servant?