What does 1 Corinthians 4:1 mean?

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 1 Corinthians 4:1

Explanation

1 Corinthians 4:1 advises the Corinthian church—and by extension, all believers—to consider apostles as servants (or ministers) of Christ and as stewards entrusted with the “mysteries of God.” The term “ministers” here is derived from the Greek word ὑπηρέται (hypēretai), which refers to subordinate attendants or servants, emphasizing the role of the apostles as Christ’s servants carrying out His commission. The phrase “mysteries of God” pertains to divine truths previously hidden but revealed through the gospel and through Christ’s teachings. As stewards, apostles and ministers are responsible for handling these truths faithfully and responsibly, as a steward would manage the household of another.

Historical Context

1 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth around A.D. 55. Corinth was a culturally diverse and prosperous city known for its commerce and immorality. The church in Corinth was facing divisions, moral issues, and confusion concerning Christian conduct and doctrine. Paul wrote this letter to address these problems and to instruct the believers in proper Christian living and to preserve unity in the church.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be reflected upon from several angles. Calvinists might interpret the “stewards of the mysteries of God” as an affirmation of divine election and how God reveals Himself to His chosen through Apostolic teaching. Arminians may emphasize the responsibility stewards have in freely disseminating God’s revelations to all. Catholic and Orthodox traditions might associate this verse with Apostolic Succession, wherein the role of the church leaders as stewards extends through an unbroken chain from the apostles. In contrast, many Protestants might see this role as applicable to all believers, who have a duty to handle the word of truth with care.

Practical Applications

This verse can serve to remind Christian leaders of their responsibility to be humble servants and faithful managers of biblical truths. It may challenge believers to view pastors, elders, and church leaders with respect and support due to their roles as servants of Christ. Individuals might apply this teaching by becoming more diligent in studying the Bible and sharing the gospel faithfully, recognizing their own role as stewards of God’s mysteries in their communities.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 6:4 – “But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,”
• Ephesians 3:8-9 – “Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:”
• Colossians 1:25-26 – “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:”

Language Study

The word “ministers” comes from the Greek ὑπηρέτης (hypēretēs), which refers to a servant or attendant, particularly one who serves under rowing in a ship, suggesting active and diligent service. The term “stewards” is derived from οἰκονόμος (oikonomos), which refers to the manager of a household or estate. In this context, it implies a role of trustworthy management of the “mysteries of God,” which involves divine revelations and sacred truths.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other religions and ancient cultures, there are parallels to the concept of stewards or keepers of divine mysteries. For instance, in Ancient Egypt, priests were considered stewards of the gods’ secrets. Similarly, in Greek mystery religions, initiates were believed to become privy to hidden knowledge. In Jewish tradition, the rabbinical role often involved safeguarding the mysteries of the Torah.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse is largely theological and doesn’t directly intersect with scientific understanding. However, the role of stewardship could invite Christians to consider how they steward not just religious knowledge but also the natural world, which could encompass an environmental or ecological stewardship in light of modern concerns about conservation and sustainability.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes that ministers of Christ should be faithful because they are entrusted with the great treasure of the gospel. He argues that it is not just apostles, but all ministers and indeed all Christians who should aim to be faithful stewards of God’s mysteries.

John Gill’s Exposition stresses the sense of duty and humility required for those who minister, suggesting that Christian teachers should not seek their own glory but that of their Lord.

The MacArthur Study Bible notes make a connection between a steward’s responsibility and accountability, reinforcing that one day, each person will give an account to God for how they managed the truth they were given.