1 Corinthians 4:1 – “This, then, is how you ought to regard us: as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the mysteries God has revealed.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Paul is telling the Corinthians how they should view him and other Christian leaders. He doesn’t want them to think of him as some kind of religious celebrity or someone to idolize. Instead, he calls himself and his fellow apostles servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries.
A servant belongs to someone else and follows their orders. Paul is making it clear that his authority comes from Jesus, not from himself. He is not trying to make a name for himself or gain power—his whole purpose is to serve Christ.
The word “stewards” (or those “entrusted”) means someone who is given responsibility over something that belongs to another. Paul and the other apostles have been given the mysteries of God, which refers to the gospel—the truth about Jesus and salvation that was once hidden but has now been revealed. Their job is to take care of this message and share it faithfully, not twist it for personal gain or change it to please people.
Historical Context
Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth, a city in Greece that was known for its wealth, status-seeking, and immorality. The Corinthians had fallen into the habit of dividing themselves into factions, arguing over which teacher they followed—Paul, Apollos, or Peter (1 Corinthians 1:12). Some were putting their faith in human leaders rather than in Christ.
Paul had to correct this mindset. In ancient times, a steward was often a trusted servant who managed a wealthy household on behalf of the owner. The Corinthians needed to understand that Paul and the other leaders were not spiritual celebrities—they were simply workers serving God by delivering His message.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that Christian leaders, pastors, and teachers are not called to promote themselves but to faithfully serve Christ and teach God’s Word responsibly. They are accountable to God, not to human popularity or opinion.
It also reminds us that the gospel is not something people figured out on their own—it is a divine mystery that God has revealed. Human wisdom cannot replace the truth of God’s Word.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s choice of words is intentional. The phrase “servants of Christ” uses a Greek word (hyperetas) that means an assistant or an underling—someone working under a master. This shows humility.
The word “stewards” (oikonomos) describes someone managing what belongs to another. This reinforces the idea that the gospel is God’s message, not Paul’s or any other teacher’s.
The mysteries of God refers to spiritual truths that were once hidden but have now been made known through Christ (Romans 16:25-26).
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 24:45 – Jesus speaks of a faithful and wise servant whom the master puts in charge of his household.
- Titus 1:7 – A church leader is described as a “steward of God,” meaning they must be responsible and faithful.
- Luke 12:42-44 – Jesus teaches about the responsibility of stewards to be faithful in their duties.
- 1 Peter 4:10 – Believers are called to be faithful stewards of God’s grace.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds us that faithfulness to God is more important than fame or human approval. Whether you are a pastor, teacher, or an everyday believer, your job is to serve Christ, not seek recognition.
It also applies to every Christian because all of us have been entrusted with the gospel. We are called to share it faithfully, not water it down or change it to fit the culture.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God, in His love, has entrusted His truth to us. He didn’t have to reveal His mysteries, but He chose to—so that we could know Him and share His love with others.
A loving God doesn’t just leave people in the dark; He gives them His Word, His messengers, and His Spirit to guide them.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the greatest example of a servant and a steward of God’s truth.
- John 13:13-17 – Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, showing that true leadership means serving others.
- John 7:16 – Jesus said His teaching was not His own, but from the One who sent Him.
- Hebrews 3:1-6 – Jesus is called a faithful servant over God’s house, just as Moses was.
- Luke 19:10 – Jesus came to seek and save the lost, showing that He was entrusted with the mission of salvation.
Paul and the apostles followed Christ’s example. They were not concerned with building their own kingdoms but with faithfully managing what God had entrusted to them.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what ways can you serve Christ more faithfully in your life?
- Are you more concerned with what people think of you or with being faithful to God’s calling?
- How can you be a better steward of the gospel message?
- What does it mean to you that God has entrusted you with His truth?
- How can this verse help us develop a more humble attitude toward Christian leaders and teachers?
This verse is a call to faithfulness. No matter what position we hold, our job is to serve Christ and handle His Word responsibly. That is the true measure of success in God’s eyes.