November 5, 2021 — 1 Corinthians 4:1 – 21

“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, and that the gifts they had were just that — gifts. They had been entrusted with something great, and for that reason, had an office that separated them from others, but had no place to be judging others.

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 will not be dependent upon 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.

Let us Pray,

Lord Christ, our conceit often contributes to an undue esteem of our ourselves. Help me not to be puffed up — instead help me remember that we are all instruments of G-d’s creating intelligence, the Son’s redeeming presence, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Pastor Dave