In teaching and correcting the problems that existed within the local church at Corinth, Paul presented himself as a servant of Christ and a steward of God's word. This is how he wanted them to think of him. How are we to evaluate this in ourselves and in others? Paul admonishes us in three areas concerning such judging.
1. Be faithful in what we do. (vv.1-5)
Outward behaviors are important. It is how we evaluate people in regards to their consistency. Am I/are they dependable with responsibilities? The evidences of our true commitments can be seen in tangible ways. Punctuality, task completion, thoughtfulness, etc. are measureable indicators. Two records reveal personal commitments to what we say we believe: our financial records and our personal calendars.
Outward behaviors of faithfulness are important to God, as well. However, His judgment of individuals goes beyond what we may see. In addition, the Lord evaluates "the purposes of the heart" (v.5). Inward faithfulness is something He alone can judge. The evaluation of a person's motives overrides what we do and is the basis of God's commendation of us.
2. Be focused in what we say. (vv.6-14)
Fast talking, entertaining, intellectually stimulating, creative presentations may draw crowds. The servant of Christ is a steward of the message. A key evaluator of ourselves and the ministry of others is "not go beyond what is written". This requires one to know the Scriptures and understand them. Then, it is required that we faithfully discipline ourselves accordingly. Phrases and verses taken out of context have led to multitudes of erroneous beliefs. Being duped by false teaching is a sign of spiritual immaturity. "...so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes." (Ephesians 4:15). We will be judged by the word of God.
Some in the Corinthian church had become arrogant in their thinking. Being full of themselves, they thought their judgment had become superior in wisdom and authority. But the facts are very different. God provides each believer with the spiritual ability to serve Him effectively. He, then, opens doors of opportunity. And, He gives the spiritual results. Our attitudes should be filled with humility and gratefulness. The Apostle Paul deliberately used sarcasm in these middle verses not "to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children" (v.14). Paul possessed all the authority of an Apostle. He led these folks to faith in Christ and established this church. Yet, the effectiveness of his ministry to them was not in what he did or said. Let the arrogant people talk. But, the fact is "...the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power" (v.20).
Yes, there may be great crowds and large followings. Sales may break records. Outwardly, every indicator may be deemed successful in our human judgment. However, without humble dependence upon the power of the Holy Spirit, no lasting ministry takes place.
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