Stewards of the Father's Mysteries

The Corinthians are judging their apostles like patrons rating performers. Paul says the only verdict that counts is our Father's praise when the Lord returns, points at his own hunger, beatings and homelessness, and reminds them he fathered them in the gospel, so he writes as a father.

Chapter 4.

Consider us servants of Christ and stewards of our Father's mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. But it matters little to me whether you judge me, or any human court does. I don't even judge myself. I know nothing against myself, but that doesn't acquit me. The one who judges me is our Lord Jesus. So don't judge before the time, before our Lord Jesus comes. He will bring to light what's hidden in darkness and reveal hearts' purposes. Then each will receive praise from our Father.

Brothers and sisters, I've applied this to myself and Apollos for your sake, so you may learn from us not to go beyond what is written, and not be arrogant, favoring one over another. For who makes you different? What do you have that you didn't receive? If you received it, why brag as if you didn't?

Already you have all you want! Already you have become rich! Without us you have begun to reign—if only you really did reign, so we might reign with you too! For I think our Father displayed us apostles last, like men condemned to die, since we've become a spectacle to the world, angels, and people. We are fools for Christ's sake, but you're wise in Christ. We're weak, you're strong. You're honored, we're dishonored. To this hour we go hungry, thirsty, ragged, beaten, and homeless. We work hard with our own hands. Insulted, we bless; persecuted, we endure. Slandered, we respond gently. We've been the world's trash, everyone's scum, to this day.

I am not writing this to shame you, but to warn you as my beloved children. Though you have countless guides in Christ, you don't have many fathers—I fathered you in Christ Jesus through the gospel. ^a Therefore I urge you, be imitators of me. That's why I sent you Timothy, my dear, faithful child in the Lord—he'll remind you of my ways in Christ Jesus, as I teach everywhere, in every church. Some are puffed up, as though I were not coming to you. But I'll come to you soon, if our Lord Jesus wills, and find out not the talk of these arrogant people, but their power. For the kingdom of our Father is not a matter of talk but of power. What do you want? Should I come with a rod, or with love in a spirit of gentleness?