Sunday, February 15, 2026
Bible Study 1 Corinthians 4: 1-21
Commentary of the Book of 1st Corinthians
By Dr. Barry L. Jenkins
Text Used: Legacy Standard Bible
Bible Study 1 Corinthians 4: 1-21
Text:
Servants of Christ
4 Let a man consider us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 In this case, moreover, it is required [a]of stewards that one be found faithful. 3 But to me it is a very small thing that I may be examined by you, or by any human [b]court. In fact, I do not even examine myself. 4 For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted. But the one who examines me is the Lord. 5 Therefore do not go on [c]passing judgment before [d]the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and make manifest the motives of hearts. And then each one’s praise will come to him from God.
6 Now these things, brothers, I have applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to go beyond what is written, so that no one of you will become puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7 For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?
8 You are already filled, you have already become rich, you have ruled without us—and how I wish that you had ruled indeed so that we also might rule with you. 9 For, I think that God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men. 10 We are fools for the sake of Christ, but you are prudent in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are glorious, but we are without honor! 11 To this present hour we hunger and thirst, and are poorly clothed, and roughly treated, and homeless; 12 and we labor, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are slandered, we try to plead; we have become as the scum of the world, the grime of all things, even until now.
14 I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. 15 For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. 16 Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me. 17 For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and who will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. 18 Now some have become puffed up, as though I were not coming to you. 19 But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall know, not the [e]words of those who are puffed up but their power. 20 For the kingdom of God does not consist in [f]words but in power. 21 What do you desire? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness?
Verse by verse commentary:
Verse 1: “Let a man consider us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.”
The tone of judgment and attack directed at Paul by some of the Corinthians is evident in these verses. The term "mystery" refers to a truth previously "kept secret for long ages" and "not made known . . . in other generations." This truth has now been clearly unveiled to those who possess the Spirit and are living in "the end of the ages."
Verse 2: “ In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found faithful.”
Obedient loyalty to one's master is the single most vital quality of a servant or steward.
Verse 3: “ But to me it is a very small thing that I may be examined by you, or by any human court. In fact, I do not even examine myself.”
Only God can ultimately determine a person's faithfulness, despite the individual having a clear conscience.
Verse 4: “For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted. But the one who examines me is the Lord.”
Although Paul was unaware of any unconfessed or ongoing sin in his own life, he understood that his limited self-assessment was not the final judgment. His own sincere evaluation of his life did not guarantee his complete faithfulness. The Lord alone is the ultimate and only qualified Judge of any person's obedience and faithfulness.
Verse 5: “Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and make manifest the motives of hearts. And then each one’s praise will come to him from God.”
God alone knows the "hidden" inner motives, thoughts, and attitudes that drive us. Because ultimate rewards will be based on this inward devotion, and not solely on outward service, only God can truly grant the praise each person merits.
Verse 6: “Now these things, brothers, I have applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to go beyond what is written, so that no one of you will become puffed up on behalf of one against the other.”
A core issue within the Corinthian church was division, which Paul addresses by using his relationship with Apollos as an illustration. Both Paul and Apollos were united in Christ and actively using their spiritual gifts. It is essential for us today to heed the reminder that we must "not go beyond what is written," meaning the authority of the Scriptures.
Verse 7: “ For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?”
Since everything a person has comes from God's provision, pride is a form of self-deception. Therefore, why should anyone "boast"?
Verse 8: “You are already filled, you have already become rich, you have ruled without us—and how I wish that you had ruled indeed so that we also might rule with you.”
Paul's words to the Corinthians were a severe rebuke, yet delivered with a sarcastic tone of false praise. He suggested that their self-satisfaction mirrored an undeserved spiritual greatness, much like the Laodiceans described in Revelation. Despite this rebuke, Paul sincerely wished that the Millennial "coronation time" had actually arrived, so that all of them, including the Corinthians, could genuinely share in the glory of the Lord.
Verse 9: “For, I think that God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men.”
The apostles were, in God's sovereign wisdom and for His glory, displayed before men and angels as if they were the final, condemned spectacles in a Roman arena—worthless and destined for slaughter. This imagery is one of condemned prisoners brought out to fight and die. Like these doomed gladiators, they endured ridicule, spitting, imprisonment, and beatings. Nevertheless, God used them to build His kingdom, thereby glorifying His name through their suffering.
Verse 10: “We are fools for the sake of Christ, but you are prudent in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are glorious, but we are without honor!”
Paul again uses sarcasm, this time directed at himself as if adopting the scornful attitude the arrogant Corinthians had toward him, in order to reprimand them.
Verse 11: “To this present hour we hunger and thirst, and are poorly clothed, and roughly treated, and homeless;”
The contrast was severe: the apostles and early preachers endured the suffering and low social status of slaves, while the Corinthian believers saw themselves as "kings" (v. 8). Prosperity preachers, take note of this verse!
Verse 12: “and we labor, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure;”
Paul willingly engaged in manual labor to support his gospel preaching, despite the fact that Greeks—including some members of the Corinthian church—viewed such work as undignified and suitable only for slaves. He did not harbor resentment about having to perform necessary labor to support the ministry.
Verse 13: “when we are slandered, we try to plead; we have become as the scum of the world, the grime of all things, even until now.”
One cannot fully comprehend the extent of the Apostle Paul's suffering in his efforts to disseminate the gospel of Jesus Christ. His ministry extended throughout Asia Minor, and it is documented that every inhabitant of the province of Asia, both Jew and Gentile, received the Word of God.
Verse 14: “I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children.”
These verses reveal Paul’s deep pastoral concern. The strong language used earlier was not meant to make the Corinthians feel inferior, but rather to heighten their awareness of the truth.
Verse 15: “For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.”
Paul addresses the Corinthians' prideful claims of loyalty to other leaders like Apollos and Peter, which implied they no longer needed him. He counters by asserting his unique, foundational role as their spiritual father, reminding them that their attacks against him are therefore unwarranted.
Verse 16: “Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me.”
Spiritual leaders are called to offer a bold yet warranted example, demonstrating a Christlike character for others to follow.
Verse 17: “For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and who will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church.”
Paul had so completely and faithfully discipled Timothy that he could confidently send him as his representative, knowing Timothy would follow his teachings. Timothy was to reinforce the eternal truths Paul had imparted, not merely offer advice, but present sound doctrine through both his instruction and his personal example.
Verse 18: “Now some have become puffed up, as though I were not coming to you.”
Some Corinthians accused Paul of being brave only when he was away from them, suggesting he was afraid of a face-to-face meeting (2 Cor 10: 1,2). While he has sent Timothy, perhaps to avoid a difficult confrontation, Paul makes it clear he will come in person if necessary. The nature of that visit, however, depends on the Corinthians' actions.
Verse 19: “But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall know, not the [a]words of those who are puffed up but their power.”
Paul states that his concern is not primarily with their rhetoric, but rather with the manifestation of power, i.e. holy living, in their personal lives.
Verse 20: “For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power.”
True spiritual quality is demonstrated not through eloquent speech, but through the strength and power of a holy life.
Verse 21: “What do you desire? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness?”
Habitual sin necessitates the use of the rod of correction by spiritual leaders. Chapter 5 details and exemplifies a method for this necessary discipline.
Affliction Is Not Abandonment
Affliction Is Not Abandonment
Scripture
“When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee.” — Isaiah 43:2
Personal Reflection
God never promised I would avoid the waters — only that I would not pass through alone.
Contemplation
Which hardship most tempts me to doubt God’s nearness?
Puritan Quote
Richard Sibbes wrote, “God’s children are often under the lash, but never out of His hand.”
Prayer
Lord, give me faith to feel Your presence especially when comfort withdraws.
Application
Call someone enduring affliction and remind them: “You are not alone.”
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Providence and Prayer Are Not Opposites
Providence and Prayer Are Not Opposites
Scripture
“Give us this day our daily bread.” — Matthew 6:11
Personal Reflection
Providence does not eliminate prayer; it invites it. The God who decrees the end also decrees the means.
Contemplation
Do I pray as though God is sovereign — or as though He is indifferent?
Puritan Quote
John Owen wrote, “Providence disposes of all things, but prayer unlocks the storehouse.”
Prayer
Make me a praying believer who trusts both Your power and Your provision.
Application
Pray today for daily bread — spiritually and materially.
Friday, February 13, 2026
The Comfort of Fatherly Discipline
The Comfort of Fatherly Discipline
Scripture
“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth.”— Hebrews 12:6
Personal Reflection
Discipline feels harsh until I remember it comes from a Father, not a judge.
Contemplation
Am I interpreting chastening as punishment or as love?
Puritan Quote
Thomas Manton said, “It is better to be bruised by God than to be broken by sin.”
Prayer
Father, sanctify me through whatever discipline You appoint for my good.
Application
Journal one way God’s correction has produced holiness in your life.
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Divine Care in the Small Things
Divine Care in the Small Things
Divine Care in the Small Things
Divine Care in the Small Things
Scripture
“Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” — Luke 12:7
Personal Reflection
The meticulous care God gives to sparrows, lilies, and hairs rebukes my restless anxieties.
Contemplation
What do I worry about that God has already counted and cared for?
Puritan Quote
Jeremiah Burroughs wrote, “God’s providence is not only in general, but reaches to every particular.”
Prayer
Lord, comfort my trembling heart with the knowledge of Your attentive care.
Application
Surrender one present anxiety to the God who numbers hairs.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Providence is Personal
Providence Is Personal
Scripture
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” — Psalm 37:23
Personal Reflection
Providence is not mechanical fate nor impersonal destiny — it is the Father’s hand guiding His children.
Contemplation
Do I believe God is merely observing my life or governing it?
Puritan Quote
John Flavel wrote, “The providence of God is like Hebrew; it can only be read backwards.”
Prayer
Teach me to trust Your ordering even when I cannot yet see its wisdom.
Application
Reflect on one past trial where God’s ordering became clear only in hindsight.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Hope Anchored in Eternity
Hope Anchored in Eternity
Scripture
“Set your affection on things above.” — Colossians 3:2
Personal Reflection
The sovereign God who begins salvation also completes it in glory. My future is not uncertain — it is secured.
Contemplation
Do I anchor my hope in circumstances or in eternity?
Puritan Quote
Richard Baxter said, “A Christian’s heart is with his treasure; and his treasure is above.”
Prayer
Lord, pull my affections upward where Christ sits at Your right hand.
Application
End your day thinking about heaven instead of earth.
Monday, February 9, 2026
Sovereignty Breeds Courage
Sovereignty Breeds Courage
Scripture
“If God be for us, who can be against us?” — Romans 8:31
Personal Reflection
If God almighty stands with me, nothing in heaven or earth can ultimately harm me.
Contemplation
Am I living boldly or timidly in light of God’s sovereignty?
Puritan Quote
Stephen Charnock wrote, “The sovereignty of God makes the heart of a believer bold.”
Prayer
Lord, grant me courage built on who You are — not who I am.
Application
Face one fear today with Romans 8:31 in mind.
Sunday, February 8, 2026
Bible Study 1 Corinthians 3: 1-23
Commentary of the Book of 1st Corinthians
By Dr. Barry L. Jenkins
Text Used: Legacy Standard Bible
Bible Study 1 Corinthians 3: 1-23
Text:
Jesus Christ, Our Foundation
3 And I, brothers, was not able to speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to fleshly men, as to infants in Christ. 2 I gave you milk to drink, not solid food, for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are still not able, 3 for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking [a]like mere men? 4 For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not mere men?
5 What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave to each one. 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. 7 So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth. 8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, but each will receive his own [b]reward according to his own labor. 9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s [c]field, God’s building.
10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. 11 For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, [d]precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each man’s work will become evident, for the day will indicate it because it is revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test [e]the quality of each man’s work. 14 If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.
16 Do you not know that you are a [f]sanctuary of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If any man destroys the [g]sanctuary of God, God will destroy him, for the [h]sanctuary of God is holy, and [i]that is what you are.
18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, “He is the one who catches the wise in their craftiness”; 20 and again, “The Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are useless.” 21 So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things belong to you, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
Verse by verse commentary:
Verse 1: “And I, brothers, was not able to speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to fleshly men, as to infants in Christ.”
Paul considered the Corinthians, despite having received the Holy Spirit and therefore being "spiritual" in the most fundamental sense, to be behaving in a way that contradicted this truth. He had to address them as individuals with limited spiritual understanding.
While they were no longer "natural," Paul asserted that they were not "spiritual" (fully controlled by the Holy Spirit) but rather "carnal" (controlled by the fallen flesh). This struggle with the fallen flesh exists for all believers, but the Corinthians' carnality indicated immaturity. Paul implied they should have been mature, given his teaching, and therefore had no excuse for their current state.
The Apostle was not establishing two classes of believers but distinguishing between mature and immature believers. He emphasized that the Corinthians already possessed the Holy Spirit and had everything necessary to become mature and spiritual, negating the idea that a second class of believers needed an additional spiritual work of the Holy Spirit, i.e. the Baptism with the Holy Spirit.
Verse 2: “I gave you milk to drink, not solid food, for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are still not able,”
Spiritual immaturity prevents a person from grasping the richest truths of Scripture. The difference between "milk" and "solid food" is not the type of truth, but the depth. "Milk" refers to the more easily understood doctrinal truths given to new believers, while "solid food" represents the deeper aspects of scriptural doctrines.
Verse 3: “for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?”
A Christian who is described as carnal, or fleshly, is characterized by the presence of contention and fragmentation, fostering an atmosphere of disorder. This conduct is observable even within many conservative churches through slander, resentment, hostility, jealousy, and conflict, all of which indicate the ascendancy of the fleshly nature.
For example, some Christians rationalize displays of temper as "candidness," when, in fact, it constitutes mere malice. The introduction of gossip, envy, strife, and division invariably allows the flesh to dominate, possessing the potential to transform any church assembly—such as a Sunday school class, a missionary society, or a prayer meeting—into a state of disarray.
Verse 4: “For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not mere men?”
Factionalism, the tendency toward internal division and the formation of competing groups, was not merely a superficial disagreement but was, in fact, the direct and inevitable consequence of the spiritual immaturity—or "carnality"—that plagued the Corinthian church. The Apostle Paul, in addressing this crisis, diagnosed the root cause as a mindset that elevated human leaders and preferences above the unifying power of the Gospel and the centrality of Christ. This "carnal" state meant the believers were acting according to the "flesh" or the unredeemed human nature, rather than being fully guided by the Holy Spirit. Instead of seeing themselves as one body built on the sole foundation of Jesus Christ, they were behaving like unspiritual people, prioritizing allegiance to certain teachers—such as Paul, Apollos, or Cephas—and boasting in human wisdom or eloquence. This behavior resulted in a deeply destructive pattern of sectarianism, where the church's energy was spent on internal conflict and strife, fundamentally undermining their unified witness and mission in the world.
Verse 5: “What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave to each one.”
The profound truth is that the ability to receive spiritual enlightenment and life—faith itself—is not a human achievement but a divine gift. It is the Lord alone who can give the faith to the spiritually ignorant and dead. The natural man, being spiritually dead in trespasses and sins, cannot comprehend the things of God (1 Corinthians 2:14). Therefore, when someone moves from a state of spiritual ignorance or death into a life of belief, it is exclusively a work of God's sovereign will and power.
Consequently, salvation is God’s work of grace to whom He chooses to give it. It is a gift freely bestowed, unearned, and undeserved. This doctrine of grace emphasizes that salvation does not depend on human effort, merit, or decision alone, but on God's prior and effectual call (Ephesians 2:8-9). He initiates the process, regenerates the heart, grants repentance, and implants the necessary faith. This foundational principle underscores the absolute necessity of divine intervention for anyone to be rescued from sin and brought into a saving relationship with Christ, solidifying the idea that God receives all the glory for the redemption of humanity.
Verse 6: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.”
Paul and Apollos were both servants of God, working together in ministry. Paul's role was like that of a missionary; he "planted" by opening up new territories. Apollos followed, "watering" by holding meetings, preaching, and helping to build up the believers.
Verse 7: “So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.”
Salvation is solely the work of God's grace, given by His choice to the spiritually ignorant and dead, and it is the Lord alone who grants them faith.
Verse 8: “Now he who plants and he who waters are one, but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor.”
God uses various human instruments to bring about salvation. These people are equally valued and rewarded for their cooperation, but all praise belongs to God, as He is the sole Savior. Consequently, any foolish favoritism toward human leaders is inappropriate.
Verse 9: “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.”
The core message is that God is solely responsible for the success of Christian ministry. This is true whether Paul's statement implies that Christian workers partner with God, or that Christians who work together belong to God.
Verse 10: “According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it.”
The foundation was established nearly two millennia ago; it is not within our capacity to lay it ourselves. Our role is solely to direct attention to that foundation, which is Jesus Christ, and to build upon it. The crucial endeavor is to disseminate the Word of God and to proclaim the gospel, which is the exclusive means of salvation for humanity.
Verse 11: “For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”
The fundamental question for the believer is whether their foundation is built upon Him. Upon believing in Christ with a regenerated heart, one presents no prior achievements, offering nothing to gain everything. You were established upon that Rock, which is Christ. It is upon this foundation that you may now build; this is the context in which good works become relevant.
Verse 12: “ Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,”
The phrase, "if anyone builds," primarily refers to evangelists and pastors, but also includes all believers called to build the church through faithful ministry. The materials used in this building are significant:
Gold, silver, precious stones: These represent dedicated, spiritual service in building the church.
Wood, hay, straw: These are inferior materials, suggesting shallow activity that lacks eternal value. They do not necessarily imply evil actions.
Verse 13: “each man’s work will become evident, for the day will indicate it because it is revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work.”
Believers have the freedom to build upon the established foundation using diverse materials, such as gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or stubble. This choice is crucial because these materials undergo different tests by fire. Work built with materials like gold, silver, and precious stones will withstand and be refined by fire, signifying its lasting quality and ensuring a reward. Conversely, work constructed with wood, hay, and stubble will be entirely consumed and vanish. Ultimately, this passage teaches that the possibility of receiving a reward motivates a believer to choose materials that will endure the testing of their work.
Verse 14: “If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward.”
The scripture promises that a believer who bases his or her life and ministry upon the foundation of the Lord Jesus Christ using materials of lasting value i.e. gold, silver, or precious stones shall receive a reward. These materials symbolize works of divine origin, purity, and enduring quality, such as genuine spiritual fruit, selfless sacrifice, and ministry driven by God's will. When the ultimate test of fire, representing God's judgment, is applied to the believer's work, only these incorruptible elements will survive. The reward granted will correspond to the quality and durability of the work that remains, a testament to a life faithfully lived and built according to God's eternal standards.
Verse 15: ‘If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.”
A believer's salvation remains secure, even if their works are found to be without value.
Verse 16: “ Do you not know that you are a sanctuary of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”
In the Old Testament, God demonstrated His presence in the temple by filling it with the cloud of His glory. Today, He dwells among His people by filling them with the Holy Spirit. Here, Paul addresses God's people as a collective body, shifting his focus in 1 Corinthians 6:19 to the individual Christian's body.
Verse 17: “If any man destroys the sanctuary of God, God will destroy him, for the sanctuary of God is holy, and that is what you are.”
It is possible, according to Paul, that some Christian builders in Corinth are doing more than just using perishable materials; they may be actively ruining God's work. Such individuals will not escape judgment.
Verse 18: “Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise.”
Those who seek to destroy the church with their human wisdom, believing they can succeed in defiling it, should instead reject that worldly intellect. They would be much better off embracing what appears as foolishness—the message of Christ's cross.
Verse 19: “ For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, “He is the one who catches the wise in their craftiness”;
The wisdom valued by worldly people—such as political strategy, philosophical thought, or skilled public speaking—is considered "foolishness before God." When compared to His divine wisdom, their esteemed knowledge falls short.
Verse 20: “ and again, “The Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are useless.”
God possesses perfect and complete knowledge of human thought—even the deepest, wisest, and most secret plans and intentions. Nothing is hidden from Him; rather, "all things are naked and bare" before Him (Hebrews 4:13). Furthermore, God recognizes these thoughts as vanity. Even the wisest human thoughts are heavily mixed with weakness and folly. When compared to God's understanding, humanity's best and wisest thoughts are utterly vain. This reality should encourage modesty, self-distrust, and deference to God's wisdom. It ought to make us thankful for His revelations and willing to be taught by Him, preventing us from being led astray by attractive claims of human wisdom and skill, and away from the simplicity of Christ or His heavenly doctrine.
Verse 21: “So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you,”
The quarreling among the Corinthians is shown to be petty and absurd by this principle. Since we belong to Christ, everything belongs to us through Him, which leaves no room for jealousy in our lives.
Verse 22: “whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things belong to you,”
A person who belongs to Christ is a spiritual child of God, and their Father provides all spiritual blessings for them. Therefore, the Corinthians' division and allegiance to mere men is absurd, considering what God has, in fact, given to the Corinthian church.
Verse 23: “and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.”
The deepest motivation for Christian unity is the profound truth that believers belong to Christ and, consequently, to one another. This shared identity—being adopted in Christ and sealed by the Spirit—creates a spiritual family surpassing all earthly divisions. Furthermore, belonging to Christ inherently means belonging to His body, the Church, as illustrated in 1 Corinthians 12. Just as the body's parts need each other, believers are interconnected, each gifted for the common good. Therefore, this dual-sense of belonging is the supreme incentive for unity. When conflicts arise, recalling "We are one in Christ" is essential; to harm a fellow believer is to harm Christ's body. This truth makes unity a divine imperative, demanding humility, patience, and forgiveness.