| |
Paul doesn’t mince words with the church at Corinth. They had a very obvious pride issue.
Humble Servant. Paul reminds them he is a servant of Christ and a steward of the mystery. He was given the responsibility of being a humble manager of the Gospel. (v. 1-2)
Stop Judging. Paul states very plainly that he doesn’t care for their judgment of him. Apparently, there were some Corinthians who didn’t like him. He gave them the truth, and ultimately, his conscience is clear because God will be his final judge. (v. 3-4)
Everything Is A Gift. Paul reminds the Corinthians that everything given by God is a gift. Like spoiled brats, the Corinthians were opening these presents from God and then boasting about what they received. It brings to mind children who open gifts at Christmas and then go around flaunting the gift as if they are superior to everyone else. (v. 7)
You’re Arrogant. In a scathing rebuke, Paul sarcastically heaps worldly praise on the Corinthians. In other words, “I would guess by your arrogance that all of you have reached the pinnacle of spiritual greatness!” (v. 8)
Go Ahead, Enjoy Your Kingdom. Paul isn’t done with his sarcasm just yet. He points out that while the Corinthians are boasting about themselves, Paul and his team will be serving Jesus in humility. They will embrace suffering, even to the point of becoming “the scum of the world” for the sake of Christ. (v. 10-13)
Finally, Paul writes that these strong warnings are meant to draw them to repentance, not to shame them. He urges them to consider the cost of following Christ. Some in the Corinthian church believed Paul would never come back to hold them accountable for their actions. To this attitude, Paul again gives a strong warning…
Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a whip, or in a spirit of love and gentleness?
1 Corinthians 4:21 GNB
Paul had no patience for divisive people. We shouldn’t either. He outlined the truth of the Gospel and did it in a way that glorified God.