3:7 3:7

1 Corinthians 3:8

3:9 3:9

Bible Versions

Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
Now {G1161} he that planteth {G5452} and {G2532} he that watereth {G4222} are {G1526} one {G1520}: and {G1161} every man {G1538} shall receive {G2983} his own {G2398} reward {G3408} according {G2596} to his own {G2398} labour {G2873}.
planter and waterer are the same.

However, each will be rewarded according to his work.
He who plants and he who waters are one in purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.
Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: but each shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.

1 Corinthians 3:8 (KJV): "Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour."

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader argument in 1 Corinthians addressing divisions and factions within the Corinthian church. Believers were aligning themselves with different leaders, saying, "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas" (1 Corinthians 1:12). Paul challenges this carnal mindset by asserting that ministers are merely servants of God, used by Him to bring about spiritual growth. In the preceding verses (1 Corinthians 3:6-7), Paul established that he "planted" and Apollos "watered," but it was God who "gave the increase." Verse 8 continues this thought, emphasizing the unity of purpose among those who serve.

Key Themes

  • Unity in Ministry: The primary message is that all those involved in spreading the Gospel and nurturing believers, whether planting the seed of faith or watering it through teaching and encouragement, are fundamentally "one." They share a single, divine purpose, serving the same God. This directly counters the divisive spirit Paul observed.
  • God's Sovereignty in Growth: While human effort is essential, the ultimate power for spiritual growth resides with God. Ministers are instruments, not the source of life.
  • Individual Accountability and Reward: Despite their unity of purpose, each individual minister or believer will be judged and rewarded by God based on their personal faithfulness and the quality of their "labour." This reward is not based on perceived status, popularity, or the immediate visible results, but on the diligent effort put forth for the Lord. This concept is further explored when Paul discusses the testing of works by fire.
  • Focus on Labour, Not Status: The verse shifts focus from the person or their specific role ("planter" or "waterer") to the effort and dedication ("labour") they put into God's work.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "one" here is hen (ἕν), which is neuter singular. It signifies a unity of essence, purpose, and identity, rather than mere numerical sameness. It implies that the planter and waterer are not rivals but are inextricably linked in a common, divine mission. The word for "labour" is kopos (κόπος), which denotes strenuous toil, effort, and hard work, often to the point of weariness. This highlights that Christian service is not always easy but requires diligent and often exhausting exertion, for which God promises a just reward.

Practical Application

1 Corinthians 3:8 offers profound lessons for believers today:

  • Promotes Unity: It calls for unity and cooperation within the church and among different ministries. Instead of competing or creating factions, believers should recognize that all sincere work for Christ contributes to the same ultimate goal: God's glory and the growth of His kingdom.
  • Encourages Faithful Service: It reminds us that our reward comes from God based on our faithful "labour," not from human recognition or comparison with others. This encourages diligence and perseverance in whatever role God has given us, knowing that He sees and values every effort. Colossians 3:24 reiterates this, stating we "shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."
  • Reduces Competition: By emphasizing that all are "one" in purpose and that God is the one who gives the increase, it discourages unhealthy competition or jealousy among those serving the Lord.
  • Focuses on God's Approval: Our ultimate aim should be to please God and to hear, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21), rather than seeking human applause or comparing our ministry to others.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Romans 2:6

    Who will render to every man according to his deeds:

  • Matthew 16:27

    For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.

  • 2 John 1:8

    Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward.

  • John 4:36

    And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.

  • John 4:38

    I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

  • Revelation 22:12

    And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

  • Psalms 62:12

    Also unto thee, O Lord, [belongeth] mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.
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