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Sermon: Servants, Stewards, and Suffering

Sermon: Servants, Stewards, and Suffering

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 Sermon Date: 10/5/2025 Bible Verses: 1 Corinthians 4:1‑21 Speaker: Rev. Timothy "Tim" Shapley Theme: https://uppbeat.io/t/northwestern/a-new- Part I: Servants of Christ, Stewards of God’s Mysteries – 1 Cor 4:1‑5 Servants (Under-Rowers) Paul uses the word hyperetas – essentially an “under-rower,” one who doesn’t steer the ship but obediently rows under direction.As Christians, we are first and foremost servants of Christ (not our own agendas). Stewards (Household Managers of the Mysteries) Steward (oikonomos) implies management, administration, responsibility.The “mysteries of God” are the truths of the gospel—once hidden, now revealed.A steward must be found faithful (v. 2) — that is the standard, not popularity or success. Judgment and Timing (vv. 3–5) Paul says: he doesn’t judge himself, nor is he judged by men; the Lord is the ultimate judge (v. 4–5).We are cautioned not to jump ahead—God will bring to light what is hidden.2 Corinthians 5:10 – all must appear before Christ’s judgment seat Supporting Scriptures and Themes: Romans 12:1‑3 – presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, humility in giftsProverbs 16:18 – pride precedes destructionJeremiah 9:23‑24 – boasting only in understanding and knowing God Key Application for Part I: Reorient your identity: you are a servant, not a celebrityGuard against pride in ministry or spiritual giftingBe faithful in your stewardship—small things count Part II: Not Beyond What Is Written – 1 Cor 4:6–13 Here Paul confronts the Corinthians’ arrogance and the temptation to measure ministry by worldly standards. “Not to think beyond what is written” (v. 6) He applies his example (himself and Apollos) so they don’t overreach.A warning: don’t exalt one teacher over another or claim superiority above what Scripture supports. Beware of Pride (vv. 7–8) “Who makes you different? What do you have that you did not receive?” (v. 7)They were already “full,” rich, reigning—without Paul (v. 8).The danger of self-sufficiency in spiritual life. Paradox of Apostolic Suffering (vv. 9–13) Paul describes the apostles as displayed as last, like those condemned to death (v. 9).“Fools for Christ’s sake… weak… dishonored… laboring” (v. 10–12) Enduring Word+1Though reviled, they bless. Though persecuted, they endure. Though slandered, they plead kindly (v. 12). Supporting Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 11:16‑33 — Paul speaks more on the “foolishness” and suffering aspect Rev. Tim Ehrhardt1 Corinthians 1:27 — God choosing the foolish and weak to shame the wise (ties to the paradox)Philippians 2:5‑11 — the humility of Christ, the paradox of exalting those who lower themselves2 Corinthians 6:4 – recommendation of oneself in hardness, trials, etc. Key Application for Part II: Do not measure spiritual maturity by visible success or acclaimEmbrace the paradox: suffering can accompany ministryWalk humbly and serve sacrificially Part III: Correction, Imitation, and Gentle Authority – 1 Cor 4:14‑21 Fatherly Correction (v. 14) Paul clarifies he does not write to shame them but as beloved children. The tone is corrective but pastoral. Imitate Me (v. 16) Because he became their spiritual father through the gospel—he urges them to imitate him.This is not blind followership, but following a model of Christlike integrity. Authority: Rod or Gentle Spirit (v. 21) He asks: “Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?”Leaders carry authority—sometimes corrective, but always tempered with compassion. Supporting Scriptures: Romans 1:16 — the gospel as power (motivating ministry)Ephesians 6:17 — sword of the Spirit (authority in God’s Word)Hebrews 4:12 — the Word is living and active, discerning motivesMatthew 18:15–17 — Church discipline guidelinesGalatians 6:1 – restore with gentleness Key Application for Part III: Recognize correction as love, not punishmentBe discerning about models you imitate—choose those who model ChristUse authority gently, grounded in the Word, not domineering spirit Conclusion & Transitions The Corinthians had elevated personalities, boasted in leaders, and failed to honor true ministry. Paul brings them back to the basics: servant posture, faithful stewardship, humility in suffering, and correction rooted in fatherly care.Today: If you lead — ask God for humility, faithfulness, and compassion.As a follower — receive correction, discern models worth following, and resist false pride.As part of the Body — support those who serve, not by flattery, but by honoring the call.
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