Faithful Stewards of God’s Mysteries

“Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” [1]

The Corinthians struggled with the concept of ministry. “When one says, 'I am of Paul,' and another, ‘I am of Apollos,’ are you not carnal?” [2] Paul urged them to think of leaders as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Our goal is not to impress you. Our goal is to serve Christ and be faithful stewards of God’s Word.

Paul urged the Corinthians not to be quick to judge. “Therefore, judge nothing before the time, until the Lord comes, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts.” [3] In due time the Lord will bring to light what is dark to you. He will reveal the hearts of people. A servant of Christ may be spot on in his teaching and practice, and yet incur many trials...

“We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage of the world—right up to this moment.” [4]

My own experience has been that the more effectively that I witness for Christ, the more apt I am to experience trials of various kinds that lead to a loss of respect among those who are proud and competitive. I can’t change that. However, by leaning on the Lord and by having a good relationship with Jesus, I can continue to work hard, bless people, and be kind to them.

“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.” [5]

One sign of God’s kingdom at work is the power to love when love it not easy. God’s power is revealed through those who faithfully serve Christ and keep sharing His Word, the Bible, no matter what trials come their way.

“Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithful stewards who humbled themselves to serve Your Word. Please bless the faithful servants and stewards of Christ who are teaching, preaching, praying, and serving people today. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.”

[1] 1 Corinthians 4:1
[2] 1 Corinthians 3:4
[3] 1 Corinthians 4:5
[4] 1 Corinthians 4:12-13
[5] 1 Corinthians 4:20