Scripture to Read: 1 Corinthians 4:5–6
God had Paul give a warning in 1 Corinthians 4:5, “Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God.” God had Paul clarify that no one is to make final judgments about anyone’s salvation before our Lord returns. We don’t know if people are saved or lost; only God knows for sure. One day, God will bring everyone’s secrets to light (Ephesians 5:6–15). For those who are saved, we will be held accountable for how we fulfilled the works God planned for us to fulfill (Ephesians 2:10). God had Paul use himself and Apollos as examples of His servants. The problem was that the people of Corinth argued about which spiritual leader was better. God had Paul write in 1 Corinthians 4:6, “Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other.” Paul told the Christians that they would not have chosen one leader over another if they had paid attention to what he had already shared from God’s Word. We must walk cautiously as we learn from the pastors, teachers, and godly leaders in our lives. We must not see one as more important than another. They are humble servants of God.
Challenge & Application
Why were the believers in Corinth struggling over who was the better spiritual leader that God had sent them?
How can we get caught up in comparing one spiritual leader to another, and how do we guard against it?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!