1 Corinthians 4:1-9

The Apostles’ Ministry

4:1 One ¹  should think about us this way – as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 4:2 Now what is sought in stewards is that one be found faithful. 4:3 So for me, it is a minor matter that I am judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. 4:4 For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not acquitted because of this. The one who judges me is the Lord. 4:5 So then, do not judge anything before the time. Wait until the Lord comes. He will ²  bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the motives of hearts. Then each will receive recognition ³  from God.

4:6 I have applied these things to myself and Apollos because of you, brothers and sisters, ⁴  so that through us you may learn “not to go beyond what is written,” so that none of you will be puffed up in favor of the one against the other. 4:7 For who concedes you any superiority? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you received it, why do you boast as though you did not? 4:8 Already you are satisfied! Already you are rich! You have become kings without us! I wish you had become kings so that we could reign with you! 4:9 For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to die, because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to people.

[4:1]  ¹ tn Here ἄνθρωπος (anqrwpo") is both indefinite and general, “one”; “a person” (BDAG 81 s.v. 4.a.γ).

[4:5]  ² tn Grk “time, until the Lord comes, who will bring to light.”

[4:5]  ³ tn Or “praise.”

[4:6]  ⁴ tn Grk “brothers.” See note on the phrase “brothers and sisters” in 1:10.