Read 1 Corinthians 4:1-7. In chapter three Paul spoke of God as the one orchestrating his perfect work--putting people in just the right places and at just the right times--to further his work. Paul spoke of God's having revealed to his people the mystery of the gospel so that each could take his part in the process, some planting, some watering, but God himself giving the increase to the work.
Chapter four begins with telling words: So then... In other words, 'in light of what we've just learned, consider this.' Consider what? Men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.
Paul clarifies that in this role God has called us, indeed prepared us, to play, we have responsibility. He then turns to give a practical insight from his own life--utilizing the first but of the chapter.
I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.
What is Paul saying? Keep in mind the greater context of the letter so far. You recall that the wise of the day thought this message (and certainly those who proclaimed it) foolish. Paul wasn't going to be discouraged in his role because the smartest people in town thought him a fool. They weren't qualified to judge him--he wasn't even competent to judge these things himself--it is God who has this master plan at work who is able to discern just what is coming together and how. What's crucial is that he and ministers like him proclaim the message faithfully (verse 2). God takes care of the rest.
Verse 5 completes the thought: Judge nothing prematurely. God will reveal all that we don't see clearly now, and then it will be a complete picture. At that time the hearts of men (and the motives of those who have been a part of God's process) will be known. At that time we'll see the fruits of our faithfulness, more importantly, the fruits of his faithfulness in and through us.
But as you look forward into the rest of chapter four, it looks as if Paul feels the need to state his point a little more... pointedly. Look ahead for next time.
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