July 8
________________________________________
SERVANTS OF CHRIST & CARETAKERS OF TRUTH
This is the way any person is to regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy. 3 But to me it is an insignificant matter that I would be examined by you, or by any human court; in fact, I do not even examine myself. 4 For I am not aware of anything against myself; however, I am not vindicated by this, but the one who examines me is the Lord. 5 Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of human hearts; and then praise will come to each person from God.6 Now these things, brothers and sisters, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos on your account, so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other. 7 For who considers you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? – 1 Corinthians 4:1-7
________________________________________
In this letter, Paul reminds the believers of their role in the kingdom of God. They are called servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. What does it mean to be a servant of Christ? In verse 2, Paul clearly mentions the importance of being a person with integrity. He must me trustworthy. In verse 3, he points out that self-examination is a human act while being examined by the Spirit of God is a divine intervention. As a servant of God, we must be constantly checked and examined by the Spirit of God as to our loyalty and service to our King Jesus. It is unimportant to hear what other people think or say about us, but our hearts must be examined by the Lord God himself through the Scriptures that are given to those who love him. Paul also warned us not to pass judgments on others because it is only the Lord who knows the hearts of all men. It is only Jesus who can bring into the light all forms of darkness that are hidden from man to see. Paul talks about what will happen when the Lord comes back: all darkness hidden will be exposed in the light that Jesus will bring with Him. He is full of radiance and brightness that there will be no way that any form of darkness will still exist. The human hearts will all be exposed, meaning all the condition of the hearts of all man will come into knowledge to everyone and there is no more hiding. All believers are also expected to take care of the mysteries of God revealed in Scripture.
________________________________________
REFLECTION
• Why must we take to heart our role as servants of Christ and stewards of truth?