1 Corinthians 4:1–2
Memory Verse
Let a man thus consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, it is sought in stewards that someone is found faithful (1 Corinthians 4:1–2).
Paul uses a word for “servant” that means one who serves as a helper, rather than the typical word for a slave. A steward is responsible for distributing to meet the household’s needs in the area to which he has been appointed. The doctrine for the Church comes from Paul’s writings because he is the steward of our dispensation; the dispensation of grace (Ephesians 3:4). Each grace believer is to act as a steward in regard to his Spiritual gift, providing the benefits it brings to other saints for their edification (1 Peter 4:10). In like manner pastors are to serve the flock as stewards (Titus 1:7).
The mysteries of God were revealed to Paul, who was then responsible for distributing them to the saints. These mysteries reveal what was hidden, so that the Christian is stable in all his ways. The mystery of the gospel of stabilization (Romans 16:25–27; Galatians 1:6–12). The dispensation of grace; the bringing in a better hope that is built upon better promises (Hebrews 11:39–40; 7:19). The mystery of the New Creation, which is the Christ: Christ is the head, and the Church is His body (2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10, 15; 3:3–4). The mystery of the relationship between the Christ and God the Father is revealed in Colossians 2:2–3. In 1 Timothy 3:16 and 4:7–8, the mystery of godliness is revealed. God’s quality of life is possible in the human body. The mystery of God’s will is revealed for the next dispensation. The Church will reign with Christ, judge the world, and angels (Ephesians 1:9–10). The mystery of the indwelling Christ (Colossians 1:26–27). The mystery of the rapture; the Church is snatched off the earth to meet the Lord in the air (1 Corinthians 15:51–54). The mystery of lawlessness; the rise of the man of lawlessness after the Church has been raptured (2 Thessalonians 2:6–8). The revelation of the Faith; the doctrine to overcome our three spiritual enemies (1 Timothy 3:9). The Church is the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:25–27). The mystery of the blindness of Israel (Romans 11:25–27).