1 Corinthians 4:1-21
We must not be presumptuous in our judgment of other ministries.
God Is Judge (vv. 4:1-6)
God’s Kingdom is Not Yet (vv. 4:7-13)
The Example of Faithful Ministry (vv. 4:14-21)
Discussion Questions
Read 1 Corinthians 4:1-21. What do you think is the main point of this passage?
Consider 1 Corinthians 4:1-6. Pay special attention to verses 5-6, which is the central idea in these six verses. How are you tempted to judge the ministry of others by things that are not very clearly delineated in God’s word? Consider things like style of ministry. Why is it important that we remain humble in the judgment of the ministry of others with regard to these things?
Consider 1 Corinthians 4:7-13. Pay special attention to verse 8. Paul uses the word “already” twice. When Paul says, “would that you did reign,” he is saying that they are living as though the end times promises had already arrived (see 2 Timothy 2:12). Do you sometimes live and think with the expectation that we should be living with a realization of the end times promises today, instead of waiting for those promises to arrive with the return of Christ? If so, in what way? How can you combat this kind of thinking and living?
Consider 1 Corinthians 4:14-21. Paul is saying that he may need to bring serious rebuke when he arrives for a visit. When is it appropriate to bring rebuke and why? When is the last time you received rebuke? When is the last time you gave rebuke?
Consider v. 15. What does this mean? How can we cultivate more familial like care in the church?
How is God calling you to respond to this message on 1 Corinthians 4:1-21?
