1 Corinthians 4:1, Who Is a Steward?

1 Corinthians 4:1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Who is s steward? He is a diligent and Unprivileged Server (v1a), caring for the Master’s possessions (v1b). The Apostle Paul was called by Christ and sent by Christ to preach the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15-16; 22:14-16). He calls himself and his fellow-workers (1) “Ministers of Christ” and (2) “stewards of the mysteries of God”. The steward’s role stipulated for our learning in verse 1 “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.” Two-word pictures are given here “ministers” and “stewards” to help us understand the position/disposition of the steward.

The Apostle Paul is describing the lowly status of a diligent labourer. Yet this unprivileged slave by his contribution as a rower helps sail the boat. He is a servant belonging to Christ. Jesus Christ is his Master. Here the Apostle Paul is using word pictures to describe this coolie who works for the kingdom of God. This work that the Apostle Paul did in the founding of churches throughout the Roman Empire was with great sufferings.

“Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace; 12 And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: 13 Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.” 1 Corinthians 4:11-13 (KJV)

May God raise up willing servants for His kingdom. Amen.