What does 1 Corinthians 4:6 mean?

And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another. 1 Corinthians 4:6

Explanation

1 Corinthians 4:6 written by the Apostle Paul, warns the believers in Corinth against the practice of elevating church leaders to a status that incites division. Paul uses himself and Apollos, who were significant figures in the early church, as examples to illustrate his point. Essentially, Paul is telling the Corinthians not to go beyond what is written in Scripture regarding their assessment of leaders, in order to prevent pride and the formation of factions that boast about allegiance to one leader over another. The deeper meaning here touches on the nature of Christian unity, humility, and the proper evaluation of human leadership under the authority of God’s word.

Historical Context

The church in Corinth was a young and diverse community, both culturally and socio-economically, within a city known for its cosmopolitan nature. During this time, it was not uncommon for followers to align themselves with specific philosophers or teachers, a trend that had infiltrated the Corinthian church. Different groups claimed allegiance to different church leaders, such as Paul or Apollos, creating division and rivalry. Paul wrote this letter to address these divisions and to call the church back to unity in Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse underscores the sovereignty and centrality of Christ as the foundation of the church, against whom all leaders and their teachings must be measured. It emphasizes that human leaders are mere servants through whom believers come to faith. Additionally, it warns against idolatry of leaders and the danger of distorting the gospel through personality cults.

Practical Applications

The teachings of 1 Corinthians 4:6 can be practically applied today by encouraging believers to maintain a spirit of humility, to value the unity of the church, and to be discerning of leadership within the church. Instead of being ‘puffed up’ or prideful regarding one’s affiliation with a particular leader or denomination, Christians are encouraged to focus on the broader body of Christ, sharing in the mutual edification of the faith community.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 3:4-5: “For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?”
• 1 Corinthians 1:12-13: “Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?”

Language Study

In the original Greek, the phrase “not to think of men above that which is written” uses a key term: “μη ὑπὲρ ὃ γέγραπται” (me hyper ho gegraphtai). “μη” (me) asserts a negative imperative, instructing the reader what not to do. “ὑπὲρ” (hyper) means “above” or “beyond,” and “γέγραπται” (gegraphtai) is a perfect passive indicative which refers to what has been written, indicating the Scriptures.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The tendency to follow specific leaders or teachers was prevalent in the Greco-Roman world, where students would attach themselves to a certain philosopher or rhetoric teacher. This cultural practice affected the way early Christian communities interacted with their leaders. Unlike the Greco-Roman cultural norms, the early Christian model emphasized unity and the avoidance of factions within the body of believers.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with modern scientific understandings, as it addresses issues of leadership, humility, and community dynamics within a religious context. However, the principle of not elevating humans to an unhealthy level of adulation is consistent with psychological insights into group dynamics and the importance of balanced leadership.

Commentaries

Commentators generally agree that Paul’s admonition in 1 Corinthians 4:6 is meant to correct the misplaced loyalty and division amongst believers in Corinth. They note that Paul used himself and Apollos as examples to teach a broader principle – that of deferring to the authority of Scripture and God’s wisdom over human wisdom. Commentaries emphasize the destructive nature of divisions within the church and the importance of Christ-centered unity and humility.