Praise from God

The situation in the church of Corinth was one of division and contention. The source of their disunity was pride and carnality which was on full display as each of the members of the church followed their favorite minister (see 1:11-12). Paul already rebuked them when he wrote, “Therefore let no one boast in men” (3:21a). In chapter 4:1-5, he continued to deal with this issue. He urged them to consider “us” (evidently including Apollos and Peter) as servants and stewards (vs. 1). One must not boast in servants of Christ and stewards of God! They had made judgments in their decision to follow either Paul, Apollos or Peter. Paul considered it a small thing to be judged by men who of course were not able to adequately judge him. The Lord was his judge, and when He comes, He will judge even his motivations for service. At that time, each one’s praise will come from God!