1 Corinthians 4:1

KJV

¶ Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let {G3049} a man {G444} so {G3779} account {G3049} of us {G2248}, as {G5613} of the ministers {G5257} of Christ {G5547}, and {G2532} stewards {G3623} of the mysteries {G3466} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So, you should regard us as the Messiah’s servants, as trustees of God’s secret truths.

Berean Standard Bible

So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.

American Standard Version

Let a man so account of us, as of ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 4:1, the Apostle Paul establishes a foundational paradigm for how believers should perceive him and other spiritual leaders, shifting the focus from human charisma or wisdom to their divinely appointed roles as humble servants of Christ and trustworthy administrators of God's revealed truths, emphasizing faithfulness as the ultimate criterion for evaluation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a pivotal transition within Paul's first letter to the Corinthian church. Chapters 1-3 have meticulously addressed the pervasive issue of factionalism and division within the Corinthian assembly, where believers were aligning themselves with various leaders (Paul, Apollos, Cephas) based on human wisdom, eloquence, or perceived spiritual superiority. Paul has systematically dismantled this worldly perspective, asserting that all leaders are merely "servants through whom you believed" ([1 Corinthians 3:5](/1_corinthians/3-5 "1 Corinthians 3:5 - Servants of God")), "God's fellow workers" ([1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")), and builders on the one true foundation, Jesus Christ ([1 Corinthians 3:11](/1_corinthians/3-11 "1 Corinthians 3:11 - Christ the Only Foundation")). [1 Corinthians 4:1](/1_corinthians/4-1 "1 Corinthians 4:1 - Ministers and Stewards") directly follows this argument, introducing the proper "account" or estimation of these leaders, thereby setting the stage for a discussion on apostolic authority, humility, and the ultimate divine judgment of all ministry.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub known for its wealth, trade, and diverse philosophical schools. Greek culture highly valued rhetoric, public speaking, and philosophical debate, often leading to a cult of personality around eloquent speakers. The Corinthian Christians, influenced by this cultural milieu, were likely evaluating their spiritual leaders through a similar lens, favoring those with impressive oratorical skills or intellectual prowess. This led to pride, boasting in men, and the formation of divisive cliques within the church. Paul's emphasis on "ministers" (humble subordinates) and "stewards" (accountable managers) directly counters this worldly admiration, reorienting their understanding of leadership away from human standards and towards divine appointment and faithfulness. The concept of a "steward" was well-understood in the Greco-Roman world, referring to a trusted slave or freedman entrusted with managing a household or estate, highlighting responsibility and accountability.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 4:1](/1_corinthians/4-1 "1 Corinthians 4:1 - Ministers and Stewards") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 1 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Christian Unity and the Rejection of Factionalism**, directly addressing the divisions Paul has condemned since [1 Corinthians 1:10](/1_corinthians/1-10 "1 Corinthians 1:10 - Call for Unity"). By defining leaders as mere servants, Paul removes any basis for boasting in human figures. Secondly, it develops the theme of **True Wisdom vs. Worldly Wisdom**, a central contrast throughout [1 Corinthians 1-2](/1_corinthians/1 "1 Corinthians 1 - Divisions and Christ Crucified"). The Corinthians valued human wisdom, but Paul asserts that true spiritual leadership is about faithfully dispensing God's "mysteries," which are foolishness to the world but God's power and wisdom to those who believe ([1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Wisdom of God")). Thirdly, it introduces the theme of **Divine Accountability and Judgment**, particularly for those in leadership. The steward's primary requirement is faithfulness ([1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Requirement for Stewards")), and ultimately, it is the Lord who will judge ([1 Corinthians 4:4-5](/1_corinthians/4-4-5 "1 Corinthians 4:4-5 - The Lord Will Judge")). Finally, it illuminates the **Nature of Apostolic Ministry** as one of humble servanthood and faithful stewardship of divine revelation, rather than one of power or prestige.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **account (Greek, _logízomai'_):** From the root meaning "word" or "reason," this verb signifies to take an inventory, to estimate, reckon, or impute. In this context, it means to "consider," "regard," or "evaluate." Paul is instructing the Corinthians on the proper mental calculation or estimation they should make concerning him and his fellow apostles, emphasizing that this accounting should not be based on superficial or worldly criteria but on their true identity and role.
* **ministers (Greek, _hypērétēs'_):** This word literally refers to an "under-oarsman" or "under-servant," particularly one who rowed in the lower decks of a ship. It denotes a subordinate, a diligent servant who carries out the will of a superior. Paul deliberately chooses this term to emphasize the humble, dependent, and laborious nature of apostolic service. Apostles are not masters but humble instruments completely subject to Christ's authority and purpose.
* **stewards (Greek, _oikonómos'_):** Derived from _oikos_ (house) and _nomos_ (law/management), an _oikonomos_ was a household manager, administrator, or one entrusted with the care and distribution of another's property or resources. A steward was a trusted servant responsible for the master's affairs, often with significant authority but always under the master's ultimate ownership. This term highlights responsibility, faithfulness, and the fact that what they manage (the "mysteries of God") does not belong to them but is a sacred trust.
* **mysteries (Greek, _mystḗrion'_):** In biblical usage, a "mystery" is not something unknowable or esoteric, but a truth previously hidden by God and now divinely revealed, especially through Christ and the apostles. It primarily refers to the Gospel message itself – God's plan of salvation for both Jews and Gentiles, forming one body in Christ, which was hidden in previous ages but now made manifest through the preaching of the apostles.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let a man so account of us":** This opening clause is an imperative, a direct command to the Corinthian believers (and by extension, all believers) on how they are to "account" or "regard" Paul and his fellow ministers. The adverb "so" (_hoútō_) points forward to the subsequent description, indicating that their evaluation should be precisely _as_ what follows, not according to their own worldly standards. It calls for a fundamental shift in perception.
* **"as of the ministers of Christ":** This phrase defines the first and foremost identity of Paul and his colleagues. They are not merely human teachers or eloquent speakers, but "ministers" (_hypērétēs_), humble, diligent servants who serve under the direct authority of Christ. Their allegiance and service are solely to Him, not to any human faction or philosophy. This immediately undercuts any basis for human boasting or factionalism based on allegiance to a particular leader.
* **"and stewards of the mysteries of God":** This second designation complements the first, adding a crucial dimension to their role. Beyond being mere servants, they are "stewards" (_oikonómos_), entrusted administrators. The "mysteries of God" refer to the profound truths of the Gospel—God's revealed plan of salvation through Christ, previously hidden but now made known. As stewards, they are responsible for faithfully managing, proclaiming, and distributing these divine truths, not for personal gain or glory, but for the benefit of God's household, the church. This highlights their immense responsibility and accountability.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse to convey his profound message. The primary device is **Metaphor**, as he uses the earthly roles of "ministers" (under-oarsmen) and "stewards" (household managers) to describe the spiritual office of an apostle. These metaphors are carefully chosen to emphasize **Humility** and **Accountability**, directly contrasting with the Corinthian tendency to elevate human leaders. There is also a subtle use of **Parallelism** in the two descriptive phrases ("ministers of Christ" and "stewards of the mysteries of God"), which are syntactically similar and work together to provide a comprehensive definition of apostolic ministry. Furthermore, the verse carries an implicit **Correction** or **Rebuke** to the Corinthians' prior misguided evaluations, functioning as a rhetorical move to reframe their understanding of leadership.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is profoundly theological, articulating the true nature of spiritual leadership as a sacred trust from God, not a platform for human ambition or a source of division. It underscores that all ministry is ultimately Christ-centered, performed under His authority and for His glory. The "mysteries of God" point to the Gospel as the core content of this stewardship, emphasizing that divine revelation is not a secret to be hoarded but a treasure to be faithfully dispensed. The primary requirement for such stewardship, as implied here and explicitly stated in the subsequent verse, is faithfulness, which contrasts sharply with worldly measures of success or charisma. This theological understanding guards against both the idolatry of leaders and the misuse of spiritual authority, reminding all that every minister is merely a servant accountable to the ultimate Master.

* [Luke 12:42](/luke/12-42 "Luke 12:42 - The Faithful and Wise Steward")
* [Ephesians 3:8-9](/ephesians/3-8-9 "Ephesians 3:8-9 - The Mystery Revealed to Paul")
* [1 Peter 4:10](/1_peter/4-10 "1 Peter 4:10 - Stewards of God's Grace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 4:1](/1_corinthians/4-1 "1 Corinthians 4:1 - Ministers and Stewards") offers timeless wisdom for both those who lead and those who are led within the church. For leaders, it serves as a powerful call to humility and integrity, reminding us that our identity is found in being "ministers of Christ," not self-made authorities or celebrities. Our primary task is not to impress or entertain, but to faithfully steward the "mysteries of God"—the Gospel and all revealed truth—with diligence and purity. This means prioritizing the clear and accurate proclamation of God's Word over personal agendas or worldly accolades, recognizing that our ultimate accountability is to Christ alone. For believers, this verse provides a crucial framework for evaluating spiritual leadership. We are called to "account" or regard our leaders not by their charisma, popularity, or intellectual prowess, but by their faithfulness to Christ and their diligent handling of God's truth. This perspective protects the church from falling prey to personality cults and ensures that our focus remains on the divine message rather than the human messenger. Ultimately, it fosters a healthy church culture where Christ is supreme and His Word is honored.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my personal evaluation of spiritual leaders align with Paul's instruction to regard them as "ministers of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God"?**
* **In what ways might I be tempted to evaluate leaders based on worldly standards (e.g., eloquence, popularity, success) rather than their faithfulness to Christ and His Word?**
* **If I am in a position of spiritual leadership, how does the concept of being a "minister of Christ" and a "steward of the mysteries of God" shape my approach to ministry and my sense of accountability?**
* **What are the "mysteries of God" that I have been entrusted with, and how faithfully am I stewarding them in my own life and witness?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "ministers of Christ"?**

Answer: When Paul refers to himself and his fellow apostles as "ministers of Christ," he uses the Greek word _hypērétēs_, which literally means "under-oarsman" or "under-servant." This term was used for the lowest rank of servants, often those who rowed in the lower decks of a ship. By choosing this word, Paul emphasizes the humble, subordinate, and diligent nature of their service. They are not independent authorities but rather servants who carry out the will of Christ. Their identity and purpose are entirely bound up in serving Him, highlighting their complete dependence and obedience to His command, as seen in Christ's own example of servanthood in [Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve").

**What are the "mysteries of God" that stewards are to manage?**

Answer: In biblical theology, a "mystery" (_mystḗrion_) is not something unknowable or esoteric, but rather a truth that was previously hidden by God but has now been divinely revealed. In the New Testament, particularly in Paul's writings, the "mysteries of God" primarily refer to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and God's overarching plan of salvation, which includes the inclusion of Gentiles into the church alongside Jews, forming one body in Christ. This profound truth was "hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to his saints" ([Colossians 1:26](/colossians/1-26 "Colossians 1:26 - The Mystery Revealed")). As "stewards of the mysteries of God," ministers are entrusted with the sacred responsibility of faithfully proclaiming, preserving, and applying these revealed truths for the benefit of God's people and the world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [1 Corinthians 4:1](/1_corinthians/4-1 "1 Corinthians 4:1 - Ministers and Stewards") directly addresses the role of human ministers, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning are found in Christ Himself. Jesus is the quintessential "minister" and "steward" of God's plan. He perfectly embodied the role of the humble servant, not coming "to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). He faithfully executed the will of His Father, stating, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work" ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do God's Will")). Furthermore, Jesus is the very embodiment and revelation of the "mysteries of God." The Gospel, God's plan of salvation, is not merely a message about Him but is centered in His person and work. He is the "mystery of God, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:2-3](/colossians/2-2-3 "Colossians 2:2-3 - Christ, the Mystery of God")). Through His life, death, and resurrection, the previously hidden truths of God's redemptive purpose were fully unveiled. Thus, human ministers are called to reflect Christ's servanthood and to faithfully steward the very truths that emanate from and culminate in Him, pointing all people to the ultimate Minister and Revealer of God's mysteries.

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.

Cross-References

1 Peter 4:10

As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Titus 1:7

For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

1 Timothy 3:9

Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

2 Corinthians 4:5

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

Ephesians 6:19

¶ And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

Colossians 1:25

Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

Colossians 1:27

To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: