1 Corinthians 4:7-21 Humbleness And Tenderness

Paul also wanted the church at Corinth to understand humbleness.  "Paul discovered that his spiritual strength was the result of personal weakness.  strength that knows itself to be strength is weakness; but weakness that knows itself to be weakness becomes strength ... There is no place for pride in the ministry."

He also wanted them to understand tenderness.  "Paul did not take credit for their conversion ... Paul was the 'father' who stood by and assisted at their birth."

He had founded the family at their church and he was an example to the family of what a godly man should be.  He was also faithful to discipline the family, it said in my commentary.

"A child's will must be broken, but not destroyed.  Until a colt is broken, it is dangerous and useless; but once it learns to obey, it becomes gentle and useful.  Pride is a terrible thing in the Christian life and in the church ... Paul had been patient with their disobedience, but not he warned them that the time had come for discipline ... A faithful parent must discipline his children.  It is not enough to teach them and be an example before them; he must also punish them when they rebel and refuse to obey ... They were puffed up and even proud of their disobedience ... Those who will not govern themselves must be governed."

Father, I pray that our church will be obedient and not have to face what this church faced -- discipline from You.

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford