The church in Corinth was carnal. (Still operating in the old, sinful, un-redeemed human nature) There was envy, strife, and division amongst them. This was primarily because they had formed factions centered on popular leaders of that day. (3:4) The Apostle Paul had to rebuke the Corinthians and explain that all of the contemporary leaders of that day were not to be pitted against one another but rather seen as fellow servants working for the same master. (3:6)
The important subject of heavenly rewards (1 Corinthians 3:9-15) is then addressed clearly teaching that Christians will receive differing rewards from God Almighty depending on the quality of service rendered to their king. Gold, silver, and precious stones are likened to eternally profitable service that is done with the right motive, right conduct, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Wood, hay, and stubble are likened to eternally worthless service that is done with a wrong motive, wrong conduct, and in the power of the carnal flesh. Every Christian will receive a reward but rewards will vary depending on the faithfulness of each servant. (3:14-15)
We are strongly cautioned (3:18-23) against drawing conclusions about spiritual truth from worldly wisdom. (That which is prevalently taught in culture or society) Human pride leads us to boast in men; thus dividing the church. (3:20-21) A right view that Christ is the centre of true wisdom and all service is to be for the glory of God unites the church. (3:23)
Human ministers (servants of Jesus Christ) are called to be faithful stewards of the truths of God within the house of God. (The Church) Human beings may be able to judge external evidence but they are unqualified to judge internal motives. (4:5) thus; only God is able to rightfully judge the faithfulness and loyalty of each minister. In fact; ministers and all Christians for that matter are called, equipped, and ordained by God for the work of ministry so exalting human beings is wrong. (4:7)
In 1 Corinthians 4:14-21, Discipleship is identified as the setting of a godly example by leaders for disciples to follow in the effort to become more Christ-like themselves. (4:16)
See Explanation Below…
The work of discipleship
(1 Corinthians 4: 14-21)
Babes in Christ are new believers who have come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ by hearing and responding to the gospel message by faith. (Romans 1:16) They have believed on the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:12) and have been born into the family of God.
Babes in Christ are characterized as rejoicing because their sins are forgiven.
1 John 2:12 I write to you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake.
Babes in Christ need spiritual nourishment in order to grow to adulthood.
1 Peter 2:2 2 as newborn babies, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow [a]thereby,
Christians are
commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ to makes disciples - Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go [a]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” [b]Amen.
The work of Discipleship has to do with a Birthing and Raising Babes in Christ to adulthood so that they can in turn reproduce by birthing and raising babes of their own.
Babes or Babies must be:
· Begotten into existence by the
preaching of the gospel. 1 Corinthians 4:14-15, Acts 8:14-17, 1 Thessalonians
1:9, Acts 4:4
· Shown an example of how to follow
Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 4:16, 1 Corinthians 11:1
· Loved in gentleness. I Thessalonians 2:7-8, 1 Corinthians 13:2, 1
Corinthians 13: 4-13
· Warned and Corrected. Galatians 6:1,
Ezekiel 33:6-9
· Taught the truth of scripture. Isaiah
28:10, 2 Peter 3:18, 2 Timothy 4:2,
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