1544 英翻中 (林前4章) Be wise about the church ministry 對教會要有智慧 13/04/2026
我們在天上的阿巴父, 求祢饒恕孩子的罪. 孩子病了兩天, 感謝祢的醫治, 今天好了, 孩子要讚美祢的大愛. 求祢叫我不要忘了要勇敢見證耶穌基督是祢的兒子. 祂為贖我們世人的罪, 釘死在十字架上, 今復活坐在祢的右邊, 作我們的中保. 奉主的聖名禱告. 阿們.
CHAPTER FOUR 1 Corinthians 4 Be wise about the church ministry
第4章 林前4章 對教會要有智慧
In 1
Corinthians 3, Paul presented three pictures of the local church. Now he
presents three pictures of the minister—a steward (1 Cor. 4:1–6), a spectacle
(1 Cor. 4:7–13), and a father (1 Cor. 4:14 –21).
He wanted his readers to understand how God measures and evaluates a
Christian’s service. First Corinthians 4:6 explains Paul’s purpose: “That no
one of you be puffed up for one against another.” 在哥林多前書3章中，保羅描繪了地方教會的三種形象。現在，他描繪了牧師的三種形象－管家（林前4:1-6）、表演者（林前4:7-13）和父親（林前4:14-21）。他希望讀者明白上帝如何衡量和評價基督徒的服事。哥林多前書4:6解釋了保羅的目的：“免得你們各人自高自大，彼此輕慢。”
We must avoid extremes when it comes to evaluating men and their ministries. On the one hand, we can be so indifferent that we accept anybody who comes along. But the other extreme is to be so hypercritical that Paul himself would fail the test. It is important that we “try the spirits” (1 John 4:1–6; and note 2 John), but we must be careful not to grieve the Spirit as we do so. In these three pictures of ministry, Paul presented three characteristics of a true minister of Jesus Christ.在評估人和他們的服事時，我們必須避免走極端。一方面，我們可能漠不關心，來者不拒；另一方面，我們可能過於苛刻，以至於連保羅自己都經不起考驗。我們「試驗諸靈」（約一4:1-6；另見約二）固然重要，但我們必須謹慎，不要讓聖靈擔憂。保羅用這三種服事形象，展現了耶穌基督真正僕人的三個特質。 1. 忠心－管家（4:1-6）
1. Faithfulness—The
Steward (4:1–6)
Paul
answered the leaders of the various factions in the church when he called
himself, Peter, and Apollos “ministers of Christ.” The word translated
“ministers” is literally “under-rowers.” It described the slaves who rowed the
huge Roman galleys. “We are not the captains of the ship,” said Paul, “but only
the galley slaves who are under orders. Now, is one slave greater than
another?” 保羅在回應教會中各派系的領袖時，稱自己、彼得和亞波羅為「基督的僕人」。 “僕人”一詞的字面意思是“劃槳的”，指的是羅馬戰船上劃槳的奴隸。保羅說：“我們不是船長，只是服從命令的劃槳奴隸。奴隸之間有什麼大小之分呢？”
然後，保羅解釋了管家的形象。管家是為主人管理一切的僕人，但他自己卻一無所有。約瑟是波提乏家的管家（創39章）。教會是「信徒之家」（加拉太書6:10），而僕人就是管家，與家人分享上帝的財富（太13:52）。保羅稱這屬靈的財富為「上帝的奧祕」。我們在哥林多前書 2:7 中遇到了這個重要的“奧秘”，所以你可能需要複習一下。
管家的職責是忠於他的主人。管家或許不能取悅家裡的所有人，甚至不能取悅其他一些僕人；但如果他取悅自己的主人，他就是一位好管家。羅馬書 14:4 也表達了同樣的看法。
因此，關鍵不在於“保羅是否受歡迎？”或者“亞波羅是否比保羅更擅長傳道？”，而在於“保羅、亞波羅和彼得是否忠心地完成了神所託付給他們的工作？”耶穌在路加福音 12:41-48 中講述的比喻中，也是出於同樣的考量。如果神的僕人在個人生活、家庭事務和傳道事工中都忠心，那麼他就是一位好管家，並且必將得到應有的獎賞。
Then
Paul explained the image of the steward. A steward is a servant who manages
everything for his master, but who himself owns nothing. Joseph was a chief
steward in Potiphar’s household (Gen. 39). The church is the “household of
faith” (Gal. 6:10 ), and
the ministers are stewards who share God’s wealth with the family (Matt. 13:52 ). Paul called this spiritual
wealth “the mysteries of God.” We met this important word mystery in 1
Corinthians 2:7, so you may want to review it.然後，保羅解釋了管家的形象。管家是為主人管理一切的僕人，但他自己卻一無所有。約瑟是波提乏家的管家（創39章）。教會是「信徒之家」（加拉太書6:10），而僕人就是管家，與家人分享上帝的財富（太13:52）。保羅稱這屬靈的財富為「上帝的奧祕」。我們在哥林多前書 2:7 中遇到了這個重要的“奧秘”，所以你可能需要複習一下。
The responsibility of the steward is to be faithful to his master. A steward may not please the members of the household; he may not even please some of the other servants; but if he pleases his own master, he is a good steward. This same idea is expressed in Romans 14:4. 管家的職責是忠於他的主人。管家或許不能取悅家裡的所有人，甚至不能取悅其他一些僕人；但如果他取悅自己的主人，他就是一位好管家。羅馬書 14:4 也表達了同樣的看法。
So, the main issue is not, “Is Paul popular?” or, “Is Apollos a better preacher than Paul?” The main issue is, “Have Paul, Apollos, and Peter been faithful to do the work God assigned to them?” Jesus had this same test in mind when He told the parable recorded in Luke 12:41–48. If a servant of God is faithful in his personal life, in his home, and in his ministry of the Word, then he is a good steward and will be adequately rewarded. 因此，關鍵不在於“保羅是否受歡迎？”或者“亞波羅是否比保羅更擅長傳道？”，而在於“保羅、亞波羅和彼得是否忠心地完成了神所託付給他們的工作？”耶穌在路加福音 12:41-48 中講述的比喻中，也是出於同樣的考量。如果神的僕人在個人生活、家庭事務和傳道事工中都忠心，那麼他就是一位好管家，並且必將得到應有的獎賞。
But a
servant is constantly being judged. There is always somebody criticizing
something he does. Paul pointed out that there are three judgments in the life
of the steward.
但僕人總是被評斷。總是有人批評他所做的事情。保羅指出，管家的一生中有三種評判。
(1)
There is man’s judgment (v. 3a). Paul did not get upset when people
criticized him, for he knew that his Master’s judgment was far more important.
The phrase man’s judgment is literally “man’s day.” This is in con[1]trast
to God’s day of judgment yet to come (1 Cor. 1:8; 3:13 ).（1）首先是人的評判（3節上）。保羅並不是因為人們的批評而生氣，因為他知道主人的評斷遠比這重要。 「人的評判」字面意思是「人的日子」。這與將來神的審判日（林前1:8；3:13）形成對比。
(2) There is the servant’s own self-judgment (vv. 3b–4a). Paul knew nothing that was amiss in his life and ministry, but even that did not excuse him. Sometimes we do not really know ourselves. There can be a fine line between a clear conscience and a self-righteous attitude, so we must beware. (2）其次是僕人的自我評判（3節下至4節上）。保羅自認為在生活和事奉中沒有任何過錯，但這並不能成為他的藉口。有時我們並不真正了解自己。清白的良心和自以為義的態度之間往往只有一線之隔，所以我們必須警惕。
(3) The most important judgment is God’s judgment (v. 4b). Certainly God judges us today through His Word (Heb. 4:12) and by the ministry of the Spirit. Sometimes He uses the ministry of a loving friend to help us face and confess sin (Matt. 18:15–17). But the main reference here is to the final evaluation when each Christian stands at the judgment seat of Christ (Rom. 14:10; 2 Cor. 5:10). Then the true facts will be revealed and the faithful servants rewarded. （3）最重要的評判是神的評判（4節下）。誠然，神今天藉著祂的話（來4:12）和聖靈的服事審判我們。有時，祂也藉著一位充滿愛心的朋友的服事，幫助我們面對並認罪（太18:15-17）。但這裡主要指的是最終的審判，屆時每個基督徒都要站在基督的審判台前（羅14:10；林後5:10）。那時，真相將被揭露，忠心的僕人將得到獎賞。
These
verses must not be used to cultivate a self[1]righteous
independence of people. The local church is a family, and members of the family
must help each other to grow. There is a place for honest,
loving criticism (Eph. 4:15 ).
If the critic is right, then he has helped us. If he is wrong, then we can help
him. Either way, the truth is strengthened. 這些經文不應被用來助長人們自以為義的獨立。地方教會是一個家庭，家庭成員必須彼此幫助，一起成長。真誠而充滿愛心的批評是必要的（弗4:15）。如果批評者是對的，那麼他就幫助了我們；如果他錯了，我們也可以幫助他。無論結果如何，真理都會被鞏固。
Paul’s “therefore” in 1 Corinthians 4:5 alerts us that he is about to make a personal application of the truths just discussed. He closed this section with a threefold rebuke. 保羅在哥林多前書 4:5 中的「所以」提醒我們，他即將把剛才討論的真理應用在自己的生活中。他以三重責備結束了這一部分。
First, “you are judging God’s servants at the wrong time” (v. 5). It is when the Lord returns that He will evaluate their lives and ministries, so wait until then. In fact, you cannot see into men’s hearts; you cannot begin to judge their motives. Only God can do that. “Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (1 Sam. 16:7). 首先，「你們論斷神的僕人時機不對」（第5節）。主再來的時候，祂會審判他們的生活和事奉，所以要等到那時。事實上，你無法看透人的內心；你無法判斷他們的動機。只有神才能做到這一點。 「人是看外貌，耶和華是看內心」（撒母耳記上 16:7）。
The Corinthians who were passing judgment on Paul were actually “playing God” and assuming to themselves the privileges that only God has. How often in my own ministry I have made this mistake! How easy it is to misread a situation and misjudge a person. 那些論斷保羅的哥林多人其實是在“扮演神”，篡奪了只有神才有的特權。我自己的事奉中也常常犯這樣的錯誤！誤判形勢、誤判人是多麼容易！
Second, “you are judging by the wrong standard” (v. 6a). The Corinthians were measuring different men by their own personal preferences and prejudices. They were even comparing ministers with one another. The only true basis for evaluation is “that which is written”—the Word of God. 其次，「你們用錯標準了」（第6節上）。哥林多人以自己的喜好和偏見來衡量不同的人，甚至將不同的牧師彼此比較。然而，唯一真正的評判標準是「經上所記」—— 神的話。
The Bible clearly reveals what kind of life and service is required of God’s ministers. There is no need for us to devise new standards. Often I receive letters from churches seeking pastors, asking if I could recommend candidates to them. Too often their “requirements” have gone beyond what God requires in His Word. Again, it is the problem Paul discussed in 1 Corinthians 1 and 2—the wisdom of men versus the wisdom of God. 聖經清楚地揭示了神的僕人需要怎樣的生活和事奉。我們無需另立新標準。我常常收到教會的來信，詢問我是否可以推薦牧師人選。他們的「要求」往往超越了神在祂話語中的要求。這再次印證了保羅在哥林多前書1章和2章中所討論的問題──人的智慧與神的智慧之間的衝突。
Third,
“you are judging with the wrong motive” (v. 6b). Each group in the church was
tearing down the other preachers in order to build up the man they liked. Their
motive was not at all spiritual. They were promoting division in the church by
being partisan to one man as opposed to the others. They needed to examine
their own hearts and get rid of the pride that was destroying the church. 第三，「你們的判斷是出於錯誤的動機」（第6節下半句）。教會裡的每個團體都在詆毀其他的傳道人，以抬高自己喜歡的人。他們的動機完全不屬靈。他們偏袒某一個人而排斥其他人，從而在教會中製造分裂。他們需要省察自己的內心，摒棄正在摧毀教會的驕傲。
God’s servants are stewards of His truth, and the key test is Have they been faithful to obey and to teach the Word of God? Not just faithful preaching, but faithful practicing as well. The testimony of Samuel (1 Sam. 12:1–5) and Paul (Acts 20:17ff.) will bear witness to this truth. 神的僕人是祂真理的管家，關鍵在於他們是否忠心順服並教導神的話語？這不僅指忠實地傳講，也指忠實實踐。撒母耳（撒母耳記上 12:1-5）和保羅（使徒行傳 20:17及以下）的見證將印證這真理。
2. Humbleness—The Spectacle (4:7–13) 2. 謙卑－「表演」（4:7-13）
When Paul
called himself and other apostles “a specta[1]cle unto the
world” (1 Cor. 4:9), he was using an image familiar to people in the Roman Empire . The govern[1]ment kept the
people pacified by presenting entertainments in the different cities. The
amphithe[1]aters
would be filled with citizens, eager to see men compete in the games and
prisoners fight with the beasts. (In fact, the Greek word translated
“spectacle” gives us our English word theater.) The Coliseum at Rome
When the “main events” were ended, then the poorest and weakest prisoners were brought in to fight with the beasts. Nobody expected too much from their performance. 當「主要活動」結束後，最貧窮、最弱小的囚犯被帶進來與野獸搏鬥。沒有人對他們的表現抱有太大期望。
What a picture of the apostles of Jesus Christ! But it forms the background for a series of contrasts that Paul presented for the purpose of trying to humble the Corinthians. 這多麼像耶穌基督的使徒們！但這構成了保羅用來使哥林多人謙卑的一系列對比的背景。
Kings—prisoners
(vv. 7–9). The questions in 1 Corinthians 4:7 ought to make all of us stop and
think. I like the New American Standard Bible’s translation of the first
question: “Who regards you as superior?” A young preacher once said to a friend
of mine, “Please pray that I will stay humble.” My friend replied, “Tell me,
what do you have to be proud about?” Why would anybody regard us as superior?
Perhaps it is our own biased opinion that makes us feel so important. The best
commentary on 1 Corinthians 4:7 is the witness of John the Baptist: “A man can
receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.… He [Christ] must
increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:27 ,
30). 君王－囚犯（7-9節）。哥林多前書4:7中的問題應該讓我們所有人停下來思考。我喜歡新美國標準版聖經對第一個問題的翻譯：「誰認為你比別人優越？」一位年輕的傳道人曾對我的一個朋友說：「請為我禱告，讓我保持謙卑。」我的朋友回答：「告訴我，你有什麼值得驕傲的？」為什麼有人會認為我們優越呢？也許是我們自己帶有偏見的看法讓我們覺得自己如此重要。哥林多前書 4:7 的最佳詮釋莫過於施洗約翰的見證：「若不是從天上賜的，人就不能得什麼……他（基督）必興旺，我必衰微」（約翰福音 3:27, 30）。
Paul
used a bit of sanctified sarcasm in 1 Corinthians 4:8 when he described the
Corinthians as kings. “I wish I could reign with you and be important!” he
wrote. “But instead, I must go into the arena and suffer for the Lord Jesus
Christ. You are first in men’s eyes, but we apostles are last.” In the eyes of
God, the apostles were first (1 Cor. 12:28 ),
but in the eyes of men they were last. 保羅在哥林多前書 4:8 中略帶諷刺地將哥林多人比喻為君王。他寫道：「我巴不得與你們一同作王，與你們一同尊榮！然而，我卻必須上戰場，為主耶穌基督受苦。你們在人眼中是首位，我們使徒在末位。」在上帝眼中，使徒是首位（哥林多前書 12:28），但在世人眼中，他們是末位。
There
is no place for pride in the ministry. If a truly great leader like Paul
considered himself “on exhibition last in the program,” where does this leave
the rest of us? Church members are wrong when they measure ministers other than
by the standards God has given. They are also wrong when they boast about their
favorite preachers. This is not to say that faithful ser[1]vants cannot be
recognized and honored, but in all things God must be glorified (1 Thess. 5:12 –13). 在事奉中，驕傲毫無立足之地。如果像保羅這樣真正偉大的領袖都認為自己“在眾人面前處於末位”，那麼我們其他人又該如何呢？教會成員若不以上帝所賜的標準來衡量牧者，便是錯誤的。他們誇耀自己喜愛的傳道者也是錯的。這並非說忠心的僕人不值得認可和尊敬，而是說凡事都要榮耀神（帖撒羅尼迦前書 5:12-13）。
Wise men—fools (v. 10a). Paul was a fool accord[1]ing to the standards of men. Had he remained a Jewish rabbi, he could have attained great heights in the Jewish religion (Gal. 1:14). Or had he sided with the Jewish legalists in the Jerusalem church and not minis[1]tered to the Gentiles, he could have avoided a great deal of persecution (Acts 15; 21:17ff.). But when Paul asked the Lord, “What wilt thou have me to do?” (Acts 9:6) he really meant it. 聰明人－愚人（第10節上半句）。按照世人的標準，保羅是愚拙的。如果他一直做猶太拉比，他本來可以在猶太教中取得很高的成就（加拉太書 1:14）。或者，如果他站在耶路撒冷教會的猶太律法主義者一邊，而不是服侍外邦人，他本可以避免許多迫害（使徒行傳 15；21:17及以下）。但當保羅問主：「你要我做什麼？」（使徒行傳 9:6）時，他是真心實意的。
The Corinthians were wise in their own eyes, but they were actually fools in the sight of God. By depending on the wisdom and the standards of the world, they were acting like fools. The way to be spiri[1]tually wise is to become a fool in the eyes of the world (1 Cor. 3:18). I often find myself quoting those words of martyred Jim Elliot: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” 哥林多人自以為聰明，但在神眼中卻是愚拙的。他們倚靠世俗的智慧和標準，如同愚人一般。屬靈智慧的途徑，就是在世人眼中甘願做愚人（林前3:18）。我常常引用殉道者吉姆·艾略特的話：“捨棄自己無法保留的，換取自己無法失去的，這絕非愚人。”
Strong men—weak (v. 10b). There was a time when Paul gloried in his strengths; but then he metJesus Christ and discovered that what he thought were assets were really liabilities (Phil. 3). It was through his own personal suffering that Paul discovered that his spiritual strength was the result of personal weakness (2 Cor. 12:7–10). Strength that knows itself to be strength is weakness; but weakness that knows itself to be weakness becomes strength. 強者－軟弱（第10節下半句）。保羅曾一度以自己的力量為榮；但後來他遇見了耶穌基督，才發現自己以為的優勢，實則是負債（腓3）。正是透過自身的苦難，保羅才明白，他屬靈的力量源自於自身的軟弱（林後12:7-10）。自以為是的力量，反而成了軟弱；而自以為是軟弱的，反而成了力量。
The Corinthians were proud of their spiritual achievements. The factions in the church were proud of their human leaders and favorite preachers. But all of this was only weakness. There is strength only when God gets the glory. “My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9).哥林多人為他們的屬靈成就而驕傲。教會中的派係也為他們屬靈的領袖和他們所喜愛的傳道人而自豪。然而，這一切都不過是軟弱的表現。只有當神得榮耀時，我們才有力量。 「我的能力是在人的軟弱上顯得完全」（哥林多後書 12:9）。
Honorable—despised (vv. 10c–13). This was the crux of the whole matter: The Christians in Corinth wanted the honor that comes from men, not the honor that comes from God. They were trying to “borrow” glory by associating themselves with “great men.” Paul answered, “If you associate with us, you had better be ready for suffering. We apostles are not held in honor—we are despised!” 尊榮－被藐視（10c-13節）。這正是問題的關鍵：哥林多的基督徒想要的是來自人的榮耀，而不是來自神的榮耀。他們試圖透過與「偉人」交往來「借用」榮耀。保羅回答說：“你們若與我們交往，就當做好受苦的準備。我們使徒不被尊榮，反被藐視！”
Paul then described the privations and sufferings that he had to endure as a servant of God. The fact that he worked with his own hands as a tentmaker would have lowered him in the eyes of many, because the Greeks despised manual labor. 保羅接著描述了他作為神的僕人所要忍受的困苦和苦難。他親手做帳篷工，這在許多人眼中會讓他顯得卑微，因為希臘人鄙視體力勞動。
Paul also described how he responded to the way people treated him; and this, in itself, helped to make him great. What life does to us depends on what life finds in us. When Paul was reviled, he blessed—just as Jesus commanded (Matt. 5:44). When persecuted, he endured it by the grace of God and did not retaliate. When he was slandered, Paul tried to conciliate. In all things, he sought to respond in love. Paul also described how he responded to the way people treated him; and this, in itself, helped to make him great. What life does to us depends on what life finds in us. When Paul was reviled, he blessed—just as Jesus commanded (Matt. 5:44). When persecuted, he endured it by the grace of God and did not retaliate. When he was slandered, Paul tried to conciliate. In all things, he sought to respond in love. 保羅也描述了他如何回應人們對待他的方式；而這本身就成就了他的偉大。生活如何待我們，取決於生活在我們裡面發現了什麼。當保羅被辱罵時，他祝福他們－正如耶穌所吩咐的（太5:44）。當他遭受迫害時，他靠著神的恩典忍受，沒有報復。當他被誹謗時，保羅努力和解。在一切事上，他都力求以愛回應。
What was the result? Men treated him “as the filth of the world … the offscouring of all things” (1 Cor. 4:13). “Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live” (Acts 22:22). Paul and the other apostles were treated just as their Lord was treated; but God vindicated them and brought glory to His name. 結果如何呢？人們把他當作「世上的污穢…萬物中的渣滓」（林前4:13）。 「把這樣的人從地上除掉，因為他不配活在世上」（徒22:22）。保羅和其他使徒所受的待遇，與他們的主所受的待遇如出一轍；但神為他們伸冤，榮耀祂的名。
Faithfulness in service and humbleness of mind: these are two important characteristics of a minister of Jesus Christ. He must be willing to work and willing to suffer. It is one thing to be faithful and quite another to be popular. But there is a third characteristic that helps to balance the others. 忠心服事和謙卑的心志：這是耶穌基督的僕人必須具備的兩個重要特質。他必須甘願勞動，甘願受苦。忠誠是一回事，受歡迎又是另一回事。但還有第三個特質，有助於平衡其他兩者。
3. Tenderness—The Father (4:14 –21) 3. 溫柔－父親（4:14-21）
Paul had already compared the local church to a family (1 Cor. 3:1–4). But now the emphasis is on the minister as a “spiritual father.” In none of his letters did Paul ever call himself “father.” He was mindful of the Lord’s teaching in Matthew 23:8–12. But in comparing him[1]self to a “spiritual father,” Paul reminded the church of the important ministries he had performed on their behalf. 保羅之前已經將地方教會比喻為一個家庭（林前3:1-4）。但現在，重點在於牧師作為「屬靈父親」的角色。保羅在他的任何一封書信中都沒有自稱「父親」。他謹記主在馬太福音23:8-12的教導。但保羅將自己比作“屬靈父親”，是為了提醒教會他曾為他們所做的重要事工。
First, Paul had founded the family (vv. 14–15). The Corinthians were Paul’s beloved children in the faith. Whenever we share the gospel with someone and have the joy of leading him to faith in Christ, we become a “spiritual parent” in his life. This does not give us any special authority over his faith (2 Cor. 1:24), but it does create a special relationship that God can use to help him grow. The local church is God’s family for helping the newborn Christians develop. 首先，保羅建立了這個家庭（14-15節）。哥林多人是保羅在信仰中深愛的兒女。每當我們與人分享福音，並有幸帶領祂信靠基督時，我們就成為了祂生命中的「屬靈父親」。這並不表示我們對祂的信仰有任何特殊的權柄（林後 1:24），但這確實建立了一種特殊的關係，神可以利用這種關係來幫助祂成長。地方教會是神的家，幫助新生的基督徒成長。
It is important to note that Paul did not take the credit for their conversion. Their spiritual birth was in Christ and through the gospel. Sinners are born again through the ministry of the Spirit of God and the Word of God (John 3:6; 1 Peter 1:23–25). Paul was the “father” who stood by and assisted at their birth. 值得注意的是，保羅並沒有將他們的歸信歸功於自己。他們的屬靈重生是在基督裡，也是藉著福音。罪人藉著聖靈的服事和神的話重生（約 3:6；彼前 1:23-25）。保羅是陪伴他們重生的「父親」。
A child may have many guardians and teachers, but he can have only one father. He has a special relation[1]ship to his father that must not be preempted by anyone else. There had been no church in Corinth
Paul founded the church and Apollos followed him and taught the people. In some way that is not made clear in the Scriptures, Peter also ministered at Corinth. (Perhaps he had not been there personally, but other teachers from Jerusalem had ministered in Corinth as “representatives” of Peter.) God’s children need the ministry of different teachers, but they must never for[1]get the “spiritual father” who brought them to Christ. 保羅建立了教會，亞波羅跟隨他，教導百姓。聖經中並未明確記載，但彼得也曾在哥林多服事。 （或許他自己並未到過那裡，而是其他來自耶路撒冷的教師作為彼得的「代表」在哥林多服事。）神的兒女需要不同教師的服事，但他們絕不能忘記那位帶領他們歸向基督的「屬靈父親」。
Second, Paul was an example to the family (vv. 16–17). Children have a way of imitating their parents, either for good or for ill. Researchers tell us that teenagers learn to drink at home and not from their peers. My guess is that other bad habits are learned the same way. 其次，保羅是家人的榜樣（16-17節）。孩子會模仿父母，無論好壞。研究人員告訴我們，青少年是在家中而不是從同儕那裡學會喝酒的。我猜想，其他不良習慣的習得方式也類似。
The word followers literally is “mimics.” Paul gave the same admonition in Philippians 3:17, but we must not think that he was exalting himself. Little children learn first by example, then by explanation. When Paul pastored the church in Corinth, he set the example before them in love, devotion to Christ, sacrifice, and service. “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Paul was a good example because he was following the greatest Example of all, Jesus Christ. 「跟隨者」一詞的字面意思是「模仿者」。保羅在腓立比書3:17也提出了同樣的勸誡，但我們不應認為祂是在抬高自己。小孩子先從榜樣中學習，然後再透過解釋來學習。保羅牧養哥林多教會時，以愛心、對基督的忠誠、犧牲和服事，為會眾樹立了榜樣。 「你們要效法我，像我效法基督一樣」（林前11:1）。保羅之所以能成為好榜樣，是因為他效法了最偉大的榜樣－耶穌基督。
But Paul was also a good teacher. It takes both example and instruction to bring a child to maturity. Paul sent Timothy (also one of his spiritual children) to remind the church of the doctrines and practices that Paul always taught. Timothy did not carry the letter to the church (1 Cor. 16:10 ), but apparently went ahead to prepare the way for the letter. 但保羅也是一位優秀的教師。要讓孩子成長成熟，既需要榜樣的教導，也需要教導的指導。保羅差遣提摩太（也是他屬靈的兒女之一）去提醒教會保羅一直以來所教導的教義和實踐。提摩太並沒有親自把信帶到教會（林前16:10），但他顯然是先行一步，為這封信的到來預備道路。 God does not have one standard for one church and a different standard for another church. He may work out His will in different ways (Phil. 2:12–13), but the basic doctrines and principles are the same. Because churches have gotten away from God’s wis
Third, Paul was faithful to discipline the family (vv. 18–21). A child’s will must be broken, but not destroyed. Until a colt is broken, it is dangerous and useless; but once it learns to obey, it becomes gentle and useful. Pride is a terrible thing in the Christian life and in the church. The yeast of sin (leaven, 1 Cor. 5:6–8) had made the Corinthians “puffed up,” even to the point of saying, “Paul will not come to us! His bark is worse than his bite!” (2 Cor. 10:8–11) 第三，保羅忠實地管教了家人（18-21節）。孩子的意志必須被馴服，但不能被摧毀。小驢駒若不被馴服，既危險又無用；但一旦學會順服，就會變得溫順有用。驕傲在基督徒的生命和教會中都是極其可怕的。罪的酵（林前5:6-8）使哥林多人“驕傲自大”，甚至到了說“保羅不肯到我們這裡來！他叫聲比咬人還厲害！”的地步（林後10:8-11）。
Paul had been patient with their disobedience, but now he warned them that the time had come for discipline. Paul was not like the tolerant modern mother who shouted at her spoiled son, “This is the last time I’m going to tell you for the last time!” 保羅一直耐心地容忍他們的悖逆，但現在他警告他們，管教的時候到了。保羅不像那些寬容的現代母親，會對著被寵壞的兒子大喊：“這是我最後一次告訴你了！”
A faithful parent must discipline his children. It is not enough to teach them and be an example before them; he must also punish them when they rebel and refuse to obey. Paul would have preferred to come with meekness and deal with their sins in a gentle manner, but their own attitude made this difficult. They were puffed up—and even proud of their disobedience (1 Cor. 5:1–2)! 忠實的父母必須管教自己的孩子。僅僅教導他們、以身作則還不夠；當他們悖逆不服從時，保羅也必須懲罰他們。保羅本想以謙卑的態度，溫和地處理他們的罪，但他們的態度卻使這一切變得困難。他們驕傲自大，甚至為自己的悖逆感到驕傲（林前 5:1-2）！
The contrast in this paragraph is between speech and power, words and deeds. The arrogant Corinthians had no problem “talking big,” the way children often will do; but they could not back up their talk with their “walk.” Their religion was only in words. Paul was prepared to back up his talk with power, with deeds that would reveal their sins and God’s holiness. 這段經文的對比在於言語與能力、言語與行動。傲慢的哥林多人能像孩子一樣“誇誇其談”，卻無法用實際行動來支撐他們的言辭。他們的信仰僅僅停留在口頭上。保羅準備用能力來印證他的言辭，用行動來揭露他們的罪惡和上帝的聖潔。
This section prepared the way for the next two chapters that deal with discipline in the local church. There was much sin in the Corinthian congregation, and Paul was prepared to deal with it. He had already written them a letter about the matter (1 Cor. 5:9), but the congregation had not obeyed him. It was then that some of the more spiritual members contacted Paul (1 Cor. 1:11; 16:17) and shared the burdens with him. Some of the church leaders had written Paul for coun[1]sel (1 Cor. 7:1), and Paul prayed that they might obey the counsel he wrote to them. 這一部分為接下來的兩章關於地方教會紀律的論述做了鋪墊。哥林多教會的會眾中存在著許多罪惡，保羅已準備好處理這些問題。他先前已就此事寫過一封信（林前 5:9），但會眾並沒有聽從他的指示。那時，一些屬靈生命較為成熟的信徒聯絡了保羅（林前1:11；16:17），與他分擔了重擔。有些教會領袖曾寫信給保羅尋求勸告（林前7:1），保羅為此禱告，願他們能遵行他所寫的勸告。
It is a principle of life that those who will not govern themselves must be governed. Insurance companies and medical authorities urged drivers to wear seat belts, but many of them refused. So the government passed a law requiring drivers to wear seat belts. If you fail to obey, you will be punished. 人生的一條原則是：不願約束自己的人，就必須被約束。保險公司和醫療機構曾敦促駕駛人繫安全帶，但許多人拒絕。於是政府頒布法律，強制司機繫安全帶。若不遵守，必將受到懲罰。
Paul gave the Corinthian church opportunity to set their household in order. In the following chapters, he explained how the local church ought to be governed in the will of God. Unfortunately, the church did not immediately obey. Paul had to make a quick visit to Corinth, and his experience during that visit was very painful (2 Cor. 2:1; 12:14 ; 13:1). He then had to write them a very strong letter (1 Cor. 7:8–12); possibly it was carried by Titus. 保羅給了哥林多教會一個整頓內部的機會。在接下來的章節中，他解釋了地方教會應如何按照神的旨意來治理。可惜的是，教會並沒有立刻順服。保羅必須匆匆前往哥林多，而他在那次訪問中的經歷十分痛苦（林後2:1；12:14；13:1）。他不得不給他們寫了一封措辭非常強硬的信（林前 7:8-12）；這封信很可能是由提多送去的。
To the glory of God, the matters did get settled for the most part. There was still some mopping up to do (2 Cor. 12:20 —13:5), but the crisis was now over. 感謝神，事情大部分都解決了。雖然還有一些善後工作要做（林後 12:20-13:5），但危機已經過去了。
It is not an easy thing to be a minister of Jesus Christ. As a steward, you must be faithful to your Master no matter what men may say to you or do to you. You will be treated as refuse by the people of the world. Your own spiritual children may break your heart and have to be disciplined.成為耶穌基督的僕人並非易事。身為管家，無論世人如何對待你，你都必須忠於你的主。你會被世人視為棄兒。你自己的屬靈兒女可能會讓你心碎，甚至需要接受管教。
God’s faithful servants deserve our love, respect, obedience, and prayer support. 神忠實的僕人值得我們愛戴、尊重、順服和禱告支持。
What was the result? Men treated him “as the filth of the world … the offscouring of all things” (1 Cor. 4:13). “Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live” (Acts 22:22). Paul and the other apostles were treated just as their Lord was treated; but God vindicated them and brought glory to His name. 結果如何呢？人們把他當作「世上的污穢…萬物中的渣滓」（林前 4:13）。 「把這樣的人從地上除掉，因為他不配活在世上」（徒 22:22）。保羅和其他使徒所受的待遇與他們的主所受的待遇一樣；但神為他們伸冤，榮耀祂的名。
Faithfulness in service and humbleness of mind: these are two important characteristics of a minister of Jesus Christ. He must be willing to work and willing to suffer. It is one thing to be faithful and quite another to be popular. But there is a third characteristic that helps to balance the others. 忠心服事和謙卑的心志：這是耶穌基督的僕人兩個重要的特質。他必須甘願勞動，甘願受苦。忠心是一回事，受人愛戴又是另一回事。但還有第三個特徵，有助於平衡其他兩個特徵。
3. Tenderness—The Father (4:14 –21) 3. 溫柔－父親（4:14-21）
Paul had already compared the local church to a family (1 Cor. 3:1–4). But now the emphasis is on the minister as a “spiritual father.” In none of his letters did Paul ever call himself “father.” He was mindful of the Lord’s teaching in Matthew 23:8–12. But in comparing him[1]self to a “spiritual father,” Paul reminded the church of the important ministries he had performed on their behalf. 保羅之前已經把地方教會比喻成一個家（林前3:1-4）。但現在，重點在於將牧師比喻為「屬靈的父親」。保羅在他的任何一封書信中都沒有自稱「父親」。他謹記主在馬太福音23:8-12的教導。但保羅將自己比作“屬靈的父親”，是為了提醒教會他曾為他們所做的重要事工。
First, Paul had founded the family (vv. 14–15). The Corinthians were Paul’s beloved children in the faith. Whenever we share the gospel with someone and have the joy of leading him to faith in Christ, we become a “spiritual parent” in his life. This does not give us any special authority over his faith (2 Cor. 1:24), but it does create a special relationship that God can use to help him grow. The local church is God’s family for helping the newborn Christians develop. 首先，保羅建立了這個家庭（14-15節）。哥林多人是保羅在信仰上所愛的兒女。每當我們與人分享福音，並有幸帶領祂信主時，我們就成了祂生命中的「屬靈父母」。這並不意味著我們擁有對祂的信仰的任何特殊權柄（林後1:24），而是建立了一種特殊的關係，神可以使用這種關係來幫助祂在信仰中成長。地方教會是神的家，幫助初信主的人成長。
It imortant to note that Paul did not take the credit for their conversion. Their spiritual birth was in Christ and through the gospel. Sinners are born again through the ministry of the Spirit of God and the Word of God (John 3:6; 1 Peter 1:23–25). Paul was the “father” who stood by and assisted at their birth.值得注意的是，保羅並沒有將他們的歸信歸功於自己。他們的屬靈重生是在基督裡，也是藉著福音。罪人藉著聖靈和神的話的服事而重生（約翰福音3:6；彼得前書1:23-25）。保羅是那位陪伴並幫助他們重生的「父親」。
一個孩子可以有許多監護人和老師，但他只能有一個父親。他與父親之間有著特殊的關係，任何人都不能凌駕於這種關係之上。在保羅來到哥林多之前，那裡並沒有教會，因此，即使是第二代信徒，也因保羅卓有成效的服事而受益。
保羅建立了教會，亞波羅跟隨他，教導百姓。聖經中沒有明確記載，但彼得也曾在哥林多服事。 （或許他自己並未到過那裡，但其他來自耶路撒冷的教師曾作為彼得的「代表」在哥林多服事。）神的兒女需要不同教師的服事，但他們絕不能忘記那位帶領他們歸向基督的「屬靈父親」。
其次，保羅是家人的榜樣（16-17節）。孩子會模仿父母，無論好壞。研究人員告訴我們，青少年在家學習喝酒，而不是從同儕那裡學來的。我猜想，其他不良習慣的養成也是如此。
「跟隨者」一詞的字面意思是「模仿者」。保羅在腓立比書3:17也提出了同樣的勸誡，但我們不應認為祂是在抬高自己。小孩子先從榜樣學習，然後才從解釋中學習。保羅在哥林多牧養教會時，以愛心、對基督的委身、犧牲和服事為他們樹立了榜樣。 「你們要效法我，像我效法基督一樣」（林前 11:1）。保羅是很好的榜樣，因為他效法的是至高無上的榜樣－耶穌基督。
但保羅也是一位優秀的教師。要讓孩子成長成熟，榜樣和教導缺一不可。保羅差遣提摩太（也是他屬靈的兒女之一）去提醒教會保羅一直以來所教導的教義和實踐。提摩太並沒有親自把信帶到教會（林前 16:10），但他顯然是先行一步，為這封信的到來預備道路。
神對不同的教會並沒有不同的標準。祂或許會以不同的方式成就祂的旨意（腓 2:12-13），但基本的教義和原則是一致的。正因為教會偏離了神的智慧[1]，轉而追求人的智慧，才導致了不同教會之間嚴重的教義分歧。有些人已經超越了「經上所記」（林前 4:6），這導致教會分裂。
第三，保羅忠實地管教了教會（18-21節）。孩子的意志必須被馴服，但不能被摧毀。小驢駒若不被馴服，既危險又無用；但一旦學會順服，就會變得溫順且有用。驕傲在基督徒的生命和教會中都是極其可怕的。罪的酵（林前 5:6-8）使哥林多人“驕傲自大”，甚至說：“保羅不肯到我們這裡來！他叫聲比咬人還厲害！”（林後 10:8-11）
保羅一直對他們的悖逆持寬容態度，但現在他警告他們，管教的時候到了。保羅不像那些寬容的現代母親，會對著被寵壞的兒子大喊：“這是我最後一次告訴你了！”
一位忠實的父母必須管教自己的孩子。僅僅教導他們、以身作則還不夠；當他們悖逆、不肯順服時，父母也必須懲罰他們。保羅本想以謙卑的態度，溫和地處理他們的罪，但他們的態度卻使這一切變得困難。他們驕傲自大，甚至為自己的悖逆感到驕傲（林前 5:1-2）！
這段經文的對比在於言語與能力、言行之間的差異。傲慢的哥林多人能像孩子一樣“誇誇其談”，卻無法用實際行動來支撐他們的言辭。他們的信仰僅僅停留在口頭上。保羅準備用能力來印證他的言辭，用行動來揭露他們的罪惡，彰顯上帝的聖潔。
這一部分為接下來的兩章關於地方教會紀律的論述做了鋪墊。哥林多教會的會眾中存在著許多罪惡，保羅已經準備好處理這些問題。他之前已經就此事寫過一封信給他們（林前 5:9），但會眾並沒有聽從他。這時，一些屬靈生命較強的信徒聯絡了保羅（林前 1:11；16:17），與他分擔了重擔。有些教會領袖也寫信給保羅尋求勸告（林前 7:1），保羅為此禱告，願他們能遵行他所寫的勸告。
A child may have many guardians and teachers, but he can have only one father. He has a special relation[1]ship to his father that must not be preempted by anyone else. There had been no church in Corinth
Paul founded the church and Apollos followed him and taught the people. In some way that is not made clear in the Scriptures, Peter also ministered at Corinth. (Perhaps he had not been there personally, but other teachers from Jerusalem had ministered in Corinth as “representatives” of Peter.) God’s children need the ministry of different teachers, but they must never for[1]get the “spiritual father” who brought them to Christ.
Second, Paul was an example to the family (vv. 16–17). Children have a way of imitating their parents, either for good or for ill. Researchers tell us that teenagers learn to drink at home and not from their peers. My guess is that other bad habits are learned the same way.
The word followers literally is “mimics.” Paul gave the same admonition in Philippians 3:17, but we must not think that he was exalting himself. Little children learn first by example, then by explanation. When Paul pastored the church in Corinth, he set the example before them in love, devotion to Christ, sacrifice, and service. “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Paul was a good example because he was following the greatest Example of all, Jesus Christ.
But Paul was also a good teacher. It takes both example and instruction to bring a child to maturity. Paul sent Timothy (also one of his spiritual children) to remind the church of the doctrines and practices that Paul always taught. Timothy did not carry the letter to the church (1 Cor. 16:10 ), but apparently went ahead to prepare the way for the letter.
God does not have one standard for one church and a different standard for another church. He may work out His will in different ways (Phil. 2:12–13), but the basic doctrines and principles are the same. Because churches have gotten away from God’s wis
Third, Paul was faithful to discipline the family (vv. 18–21). A child’s will must be broken, but not destroyed. Until a colt is broken, it is dangerous and useless; but once it learns to obey, it becomes gentle and useful. Pride is a terrible thing in the Christian life and in the church. The yeast of sin (leaven, 1 Cor. 5:6–8) had made the Corinthians “puffed up,” even to the point of saying, “Paul will not come to us! His bark is worse than his bite!” (2 Cor. 10:8–11)
Paul had been patient with their disobedience, but now he warned them that the time had come for discipline. Paul was not like the tolerant modern mother who shouted at her spoiled son, “This is the last time I’m going to tell you for the last time!”
A faithful parent must discipline his children. It is not enough to teach them and be an example before them; he must also punish them when they rebel and refuse to obey. Paul would have preferred to come with meekness and deal with their sins in a gentle manner, but their own attitude made this difficult. They were puffed up—and even proud of their disobedience (1 Cor. 5:1–2)!
The contrast in this paragraph is between speech and power, words and deeds. The arrogant Corinthians had no problem “talking big,” the way children often will do; but they could not back up their talk with their “walk.” Their religion was only in words. Paul was prepared to back up his talk with power, with deeds that would reveal their sins and God’s holiness.
This section prepared the way for the next two chapters that deal with discipline in the local church. There was much sin in the Corinthian congregation, and Paul was prepared to deal with it. He had already written them a letter about the matter (1 Cor. 5:9), but the congregation had not obeyed him. It was then that some of the more spiritual members contacted Paul (1 Cor. 1:11; 16:17) and shared the burdens with him. Some of the church leaders had written Paul for coun[1]sel (1 Cor. 7:1), and Paul prayed that they might obey the counsel he wrote to them.
It is a principle of life that those who will not govern themselves must be governed. Insurance companies and medical authorities urged drivers to wear seat belts, but many of them refused. So the government passed a law requiring drivers to wear seat belts. If you fail to obey, you will be punished.
Paul gave the Corinthian church opportunity to set their household in order. In the following chapters, he explained how the local church ought to be governed in the will of God. Unfortunately, the church did not immediately obey. Paul had to make a quick visit to Corinth, and his experience during that visit was very painful (2 Cor. 2:1; 12:14 ; 13:1). He then had to write them a very strong letter (1 Cor. 7:8–12); possibly it was carried by Titus.
To the glory of God, the matters did get settled for the most part. There was still some mopping up to do (2 Cor. 12:20 —13:5), but the crisis was now over.
It is not an easy thing to be a minister of Jesus Christ. As a steward, you must be faithful to your Master no matter what men may say to you or do to you. You will be treated as refuse by the people of the world. Your own spiritual children may break your heart and have to be disciplined.
God’s faithful servants deserve our love, respect, obedience, and prayer support.
What was the result? Men treated him “as the filth of the world … the offscouring of all things” (1 Cor. 4:13). “Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live” (Acts 22:22). Paul and the other apostles were treated just as their Lord was treated; but God vindicated them and brought glory to His name.
Faithfulness
in service and humbleness of mind: these are two important characteristics of a
minister of Jesus Christ. He must be willing to work and willing to suffer. It
is one thing to be faithful and quite another to be popular. But there is a
third characteristic that helps to balance the others.
3. Tenderness—The
Father (4:14 –21)
Paul
had already compared the local church to a family (1 Cor. 3:1–4). But now the
emphasis is on the minister as a “spiritual father.” In none of his letters did
Paul ever call himself “father.” He was mindful of the Lord’s teaching in
Matthew 23:8–12. But in comparing him[1]self
to a “spiritual father,” Paul reminded the church of the important ministries
he had performed on their behalf.
First,
Paul had founded the family (vv. 14–15). The Corinthians were Paul’s beloved
children in the faith. Whenever we share the gospel with someone and have the
joy of leading him to faith in Christ, we become a “spiritual parent” in his
life. This does not give us any special authority over his faith (2 Cor. 1:24),
but it does create a special relationship that God can use to help him grow.
The local church is God’s family for helping the newborn Christians develop.
It is
important to note that Paul did not take the credit for their conversion. Their
spiritual birth was in Christ and through the gospel. Sinners are born again
through the ministry of the Spirit of God and the Word of God (John 3:6; 1
Peter 1:23–25). Paul was the “father” who stood by and assisted at their birth.
A child
may have many guardians and teachers, but he can have only one father. He has a
special relation[1]ship
to his father that must not be preempted by anyone else. There had been no
church in Corinth
Paul
founded the church and Apollos followed him and taught the people. In some way
that is not made clear in the Scriptures, Peter also ministered at Corinth.
(Perhaps he had not been there personally, but other teachers from Jerusalem
had ministered in Corinth as “representatives” of Peter.) God’s children need
the ministry of different teachers, but they must never for[1]get
the “spiritual father” who brought them to Christ.
Second,
Paul was an example to the family (vv. 16–17). Children have a way of imitating
their parents, either for good or for ill. Researchers tell us that teenagers
learn to drink at home and not from their peers. My guess is that other bad habits
are learned the same way.
The
word followers literally is “mimics.” Paul gave the same admonition in
Philippians 3:17, but we must not think that he was exalting himself. Little
children learn first by example, then by explanation. When Paul pastored the
church in Corinth, he set the example before them in love, devotion to Christ,
sacrifice, and service. “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1
Cor. 11:1). Paul was a good example because he was following the greatest
Example of all, Jesus Christ.
But
Paul was also a good teacher. It takes both example and instruction to bring a
child to maturity. Paul sent Timothy (also one of his spiritual children) to
remind the church of the doctrines and practices that Paul always taught.
Timothy did not carry the letter to the church (1 Cor. 16:10 ), but apparently went ahead to prepare the
way for the letter.
God
does not have one standard for one church and a different standard for another
church. He may work out His will in different ways (Phil. 2:12–13), but the
basic doctrines and principles are the same. Because churches have gotten away
from God’s wis
Third,
Paul was faithful to discipline the family (vv. 18–21). A child’s will must be
broken, but not destroyed. Until a colt is broken, it is dangerous and useless;
but once it learns to obey, it becomes gentle and useful. Pride is a terrible
thing in the Christian life and in the church. The yeast of sin (leaven, 1 Cor.
5:6–8) had made the Corinthians “puffed up,” even to the point of saying, “Paul
will not come to us! His bark is worse than his bite!” (2 Cor. 10:8–11)
Paul
had been patient with their disobedience, but now he warned them that the time
had come for discipline. Paul was not like the tolerant modern mother who
shouted at her spoiled son, “This is the last time I’m going to tell you for
the last time!”
A
faithful parent must discipline his children. It is not enough to teach them
and be an example before them; he must also punish them when they rebel and
refuse to obey. Paul would have preferred to come with meekness and deal with
their sins in a gentle manner, but their own attitude made this difficult. They
were puffed up—and even proud of their disobedience (1 Cor. 5:1–2)!
The
contrast in this paragraph is between speech and power, words and deeds. The
arrogant Corinthians had no problem “talking big,” the way children often will
do; but they could not back up their talk with their “walk.” Their religion was
only in words. Paul was prepared to back up his talk with power, with deeds
that would reveal their sins and God’s holiness.
This
section prepared the way for the next two chapters that deal with discipline in
the local church. There was much sin in the Corinthian congregation, and Paul
was prepared to deal with it. He had already written them a letter about the matter
(1 Cor. 5:9), but the congregation had not obeyed him. It was then that some of
the more spiritual members contacted Paul (1 Cor. 1:11; 16:17) and shared the
burdens with him. Some of the church leaders had written Paul for coun[1]sel
(1 Cor. 7:1), and Paul prayed that they might obey the counsel he wrote to
them.
It is a
principle of life that those who will not govern themselves must be governed.
Insurance companies and medical authorities urged drivers to wear seat belts,
but many of them refused. So the government passed a law requiring drivers to
wear seat belts. If you fail to obey, you will be punished.
Paul
gave the Corinthian church opportunity to set their household in order. In the
following chapters, he explained how the local church ought to be governed in
the will of God. Unfortunately, the church did not immediately obey. Paul had
to make a quick visit to Corinth, and his experience during that visit was very
painful (2 Cor. 2:1; 12:14 ;
13:1). He then had to write them a very strong letter (1 Cor. 7:8–12); possibly
it was carried by Titus.
To the
glory of God, the matters did get settled for the most part. There was still
some mopping up to do (2 Cor. 12:20 —13:5),
but the crisis was now over.
It is
not an easy thing to be a minister of Jesus Christ. As a steward, you must be
faithful to your Master no matter what men may say to you or do to you. You
will be treated as refuse by the people of the world. Your own spiritual
children may break your heart and have to be disciplined.
God’s
faithful servants deserve our love, respect, obedience, and prayer support.
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