1 Corinthians 3-4 KJV: A Lesson in Humility and Faithfulness
Division and Carnality in the Church
In 1 Corinthians 3-4, Paul addresses the divisions and carnality that have arisen in the church of Corinth. He expresses his disappointment and frustration with the believers, saying, "For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?" (1 Corinthians 3:3, KJV). Paul emphasizes that their behavior is not befitting of spiritual people, but rather resembles the behavior of the unregenerate.
The Ministry of Apostles and Servants
Paul reminds the Corinthians that he and Apollos are merely servants of Christ, appointed to minister to them. He emphasizes that their ministries are not about personal gain or recognition, but about serving the Lord and His people. "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?" (1 Corinthians 3:5, KJV).
The Foundation of Jesus Christ
Paul emphasizes that the foundation of the church is Jesus Christ, and that he and Apollos have built upon that foundation. "According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon" (1 Corinthians 3:10, KJV).
The Judgment Seat of Christ
Paul warns the Corinthians that their works will be judged by Christ, and that they will receive rewards or suffer loss according to their deeds. "Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is" (1 Corinthians 3:13, KJV).
The Stewardship of the Mysteries of God
In chapter 4, Paul emphasizes the importance of faithful stewardship in ministry. He writes, "Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:1-2, KJV).
The Humility of the Apostles
Paul and his fellow apostles are described as "the offscouring of all things unto this day" (1 Corinthians 4:13, KJV). They have been treated poorly and mistreated, yet they continue to minister and serve the Lord.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 3-4, Paul addresses the Corinthian church's carnality and reminds them of the importance of faithfulness, humility, and stewardship in ministry. May we, like Paul, be faithful servants of Christ, building upon the foundation of Jesus Christ, and seeking to please Him in all that we do.
