“Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. I do not even judge myself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive commendation from God.

I have applied all this to Apollos and myself for your benefit, brothers and sisters, so that you may learn through us the meaning of the saying, “Nothing beyond what is written,” so that none of you will be puffed up in favor of one against another. For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you received it, why do you boast as if it were not a gift?” 1 Corinthians 4:1-7

Paul was trying to make the point that Apostles were no more than servants of Christ, but that did not mean they were to be undervalued. They had a great trust, and for that reason, had an office that’s separated them from others. Paul seems to be concerned with his own reputation, but he knew that, though his efforts would seem to only please people in his charge, this alone would not prove himself a faithful servant of Christ.

It is a comfort, is it not, that we will not be standing in front of our fellow servants as our final judges. And it is not judging well of ourselves, or justifying ourselves, that will prove anything for us. Our own judgment is not to be depended upon to be any measure of our true faithfulness; nor are our own works to be any measure for our justification. There is a day coming, that will bring all secret sins into the light, and will uncover the secrets of our hearts. Then every slandered believer will be justified, and every faithful servant approved and rewarded. The word of G-d is the best rule by which to judge all people. Pride is usually at the bottom of our disagreements — conceit contributes to produce undue esteem of our ourselves. Let’s not be puffed up for or against each other — instead let’s remember that we are all instruments, employed by G-d, and endowed with various and special talents and gifts.

Pastor Dave