1 Corinthians 3:4-7: The Ministry of Apollos and Paul
In 1 Corinthians 3:4-7, the apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church's fascination with human leaders, specifically Apollos and himself. Paul reminds the believers that their focus should be on God, not on human ministers.
The Divisions Because of Apollos and Paul
1 Corinthians 3:4-5
For when one says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. (NIV)
Paul emphasizes that he and Apollos are mere servants of God, and their role is to facilitate the believers' faith. The division among the Corinthian Christians, where some claimed allegiance to Paul and others to Apollos, is unnecessary and misguided.
The Role of Apollos and Paul in God's Harvest
1 Corinthians 3:6-7
I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. (NIV)
Paul uses the analogy of planting and watering to explain his and Apollos' roles. He "planted" the seed of faith, and Apollos "watered" it. However, it is God who brings growth and success, not human effort. This passage highlights the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and power in the growth of the church.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 3:4-7, Paul reminds the Corinthian church to focus on God and not on human leaders. The apostle emphasizes the role of God in the growth of faith and the church, while minimizing the importance of human ministers. This passage serves as a powerful reminder for believers today to prioritize their relationship with God and recognize His power and sovereignty.
