God is looking for genuine humility

I Corinthians 4:6–13
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A well-known Christian businessman who was visiting a church was asked to give his testimony. He said, “I have a fine family, a large house, a successful business, and a good reputation. I have plenty of money so I can support some Christian ministries very generously. Many … More

Humility

The Corinthians had split into various cliques, each following its favorite preacher (Paul, Apollos, Peter etc.). Each group believed it was the only one to have the whole truth, and thus felt spiritually proud. Paul told the groups not to boast about being tied to a particular preacher because each preacher was just a servant. No preacher has more status with the Lord than another. In this chapter, Paul is presenting us with three characteristics of a true minister. We saw the first one yesterday, and today we will see the second.

1. He is to be a humble example (vv. 6-13). The Corinthians were wise in their own eyes, but they were actually fools in God’s sight. Paul asks three pointed questions that puncture the bubble of their pride (v. 7).

a. Who makes you different? In other words, who regards you as superior? There was no room for pride and self-conceit when everything they were they owed to God.

b. What have you received? Everything they had, including their gifts in the ministry, were given them by God. To take any credit personally was an insult to Him.

c. Why do you glory? John the Baptist said, “a man can receive nothing, except it be given him from Heaven … He (Christ) must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:27,30).

Trying to humble the Corinthians, Paul makes a series of contrasts. He said, “You are trying to act as kings when we are prisoners subject to death” (vv. 7-9). He said, “you want people to see you as strong men when in ourselves we are weak” (v. 10). Finally, He said, “you want the honor that comes from men instead of being associated with us and ready for suffering” (vv. 11-13).

Application

Lord, help me not to try to take the credit for things you do for me, give to me, or allow me to accomplish.

I Corinthians 4:6-13 (English Standard Version)

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