1 Corinthians 4:8
Verse
Context
Servants of Christ
7For who makes you so superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?8Already you have all you want. Already you have become rich. Without us, you have become kings. How I wish you really were kings, so that we might be kings with you!9For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like prisoners appointed for death. We have become a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men.
Sermons
Carter Conlon
William MacDonald
J.M. DaviesCarter Conlon
George Fox
John Nelson DarbySummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now ye - Corinthians are full of secular wisdom; now ye are rich, both in wealth and spiritual gifts; (Co1 14:26): ye have reigned as kings, flourishing in the enjoyment of these things, in all tranquillity and honor; without any want of us: and I would to God ye did reign, in deed, and not in conceit only, that we also, poor, persecuted, and despised apostles, might reign with you. - Whitby. Though this paraphrase appears natural, yet I am of opinion that the apostle here intends a strong irony; and one which, when taken in conjunction with what he had said before, must have stung them to the heart. It is not an unusual thing for many people to forget, if not despise, the men by whom they were brought to the knowledge of the truth; and take up with others to whom, in the things of God, they owe nothing. Reader, is this thy case?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Irony. Translate, "Already ye are filled full (with spiritual food), already ye are rich, ye have seated yourselves upon your throne as kings, without us." The emphasis is on "already" and "without us"; ye act as if ye needed no more to "hunger and thirst after righteousness," and as if already ye had reached the "kingdom" for which Christians have to strive and suffer. Ye are so puffed up with your favorite teachers, and your own fancied spiritual attainments in knowledge through them, that ye feel like those "filled full" at a feast, or as a "rich" man priding himself in his riches: so ye feel ye can now do "without us," your first spiritual fathers (Co1 4:15). They forgot that before the "kingdom" and the "fulness of joy," at the marriage feast of the Lamb, must come the cross, and suffering, to every true believer (Ti2 2:5, Ti2 2:11-12). They were like the self-complacent Laodiceans (Rev 3:17; compare Hos 12:8). Temporal fulness and riches doubtless tended in some cases at Corinth, to generate this spiritual self-sufficiency; the contrast to the apostle's literal "hunger and thirst" (Co1 4:11) proves this. I would . . . ye did reign--Translate, "I would indeed," &c. I would truly it were so, and that your kingdom had really begun. that we also might reign with you-- (Co2 12:14). "I seek not yours, but you." Your spiritual prosperity would redound to that of us, your fathers in Christ (Co1 9:23). When you reach the kingdom, you shall be our "crown of rejoicing, in the presence of our Lord Jesus" (Th1 2:19).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now ye are full,.... That is, in their own opinion: these words, and some following expressions, are an ironical concession. They were not full of God, and divine things; nor of Christ, and of grace out of his fulness; nor of the Holy Ghost, and of faith, as Stephen and Barnabas are said to be; nor of joy and peace in believing; nor of goodness and spiritual knowledge; but they were full of themselves, and were pulled up in their fleshly minds with an opinion of their abilities, learning, oratory, and eloquence, of their ministers, and of their own great improvements in knowledge under their ministrations. They fancied they had got to a perfection in knowledge and were brimful of it; and as the full stomach, from which the metaphor is taken, loathes the honeycomb, so these persons loathed the apostle's ministry, and the pure preaching of the Gospel; imagining that they had attained to something above it, and stood in no need of it; when, alas! they were but babes, children in understanding, and needed milk instead of strong meat; so far were they from being what they thought themselves to be. Now ye are rich; not in faith; nor in good works; nor in spiritual gifts and knowledge, though some among them were; but that is not here intended: the meaning is, they were rich, and abounded in knowledge in their own account. Like the Laodiceans, they conceited themselves to be rich, and increased with goods, when they were poor, and wretched, and miserable. Ye have reigned as kings without us. The saints, in the best sense, are kings, made so by Christ; and have not only the name, and the ensigns of royalty, as crowns and thrones prepared for them, but kingdoms also: they have a kingdom of grace, which they enjoy now, and shall never be removed; in which they reign as kings under the influence of the Spirit of God, over the corruptions of their own hearts, which are laid under the restraints of mighty grace; and over the world, which they have under the feet; and over Satan, who is dethroned and cast out of them; and they shall inherit the kingdom of glory hereafter; but nothing of this kind is here intended. The sense of the words is, that these persons imagined that they had arrived to such a pitch of knowledge, as to be independent of the apostles; needed no instructions and directions from them, and were in great tranquillity and ease of mind, and attended with outward prosperity, so that they lived, as kings, the most happy life that could be desired; upon which the apostle expresses his hearty wish for them: and I would to God ye did reign; not in carnal security, and in affluence of worldly enjoyments, which the apostle was not desirous of for himself, and other his fellow ministers; nor in a spiritual sense, merely as believers in common, and as he then did; but with Christ in his kingdom state here on earth: that we also might reign with you; for all the saints will be together when Christ takes to himself his great power, and reigns; they will all reign with him on earth a thousand years; this is a faithful saying, nothing more true, or to be depended on, that those that suffer with him shall also reign with him; and not a part of his people only, but the whole body: hence the apostle wishes, that this reigning time for the church of Christ was come, then he and the rest of the apostles would reign also: but, alas! it was a plain case, from the condition they were in, of which the following words give a narrative, that this time was not yet.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:8-13 Paul ironically highlights the difference between himself and them. Their attitudes reflect the wisdom of the world; his, the wisdom of God. In their pride, the Corinthians thought they had arrived, but they actually had a long way to go (cp. Rev 3:17-18; contrast Phil 3:12-14). If they had truly arrived, they would be sharing more of the suffering that Paul experienced (1 Cor 4:11-13). In contrast to the Corinthians, who were so proud of their attainments and the respect they had from others, the apostles suffered scorn and contempt.
1 Corinthians 4:8
Servants of Christ
7For who makes you so superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?8Already you have all you want. Already you have become rich. Without us, you have become kings. How I wish you really were kings, so that we might be kings with you!9For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like prisoners appointed for death. We have become a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
When Carnal Men Claim the Throne
By Carter Conlon2.4K45:20Carnality1CO 4:8In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for God's guidance and asks for the ability to effectively communicate his message. He then references 1 Corinthians 4:8-16, where Paul addresses the issue of powerlessness in the church. The preacher highlights the story of Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20 as an example of seeking God's strategy and not relying on human effort. He emphasizes the need for the church to experience revival, awaken from slumber, and move in the power of the Holy Spirit. The sermon is part of a series on the Corinthian problem and explores the roots and resolutions to powerlessness in the last days church.
True Discipleship - Part 3
By William MacDonald1.8K32:25Discipleship1CO 4:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the topics of discipleship and warfare. He begins by referencing 1 Corinthians chapter 4, emphasizing the apostles' role as servants appointed to death. He shares a story about Betty Elliott, who believed that God would protect her and her daughter while ministering to dangerous Alka Indians. The speaker also discusses the importance of using weapons in spiritual warfare, specifically prayer and the Word of God. He mentions Billy Graham's plan to concentrate on the scriptures in the last years of his life.
1 Corinthians 4; Belfast Missionary conf.1964
By J.M. Davies95012:04Spiritual PrioritiesWorldly TemptationsJDG 9:81CO 4:8J.M. Davies emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual responsibilities over worldly success in his sermon at the Belfast Missionary Conference in 1964. He reflects on 1 Corinthians 4:8, discussing how the apostles are seen as spectacles for the world, and challenges believers to consider their individual choices between worldly promotion and their ministry. Using the metaphor of olive oil, figs, and wine, he illustrates the necessity of bearing fruit for God and maintaining joy in the Lord, even when faced with tempting opportunities for prosperity. Davies warns against allowing earthly gains to overshadow the call to further the gospel, urging believers to hold tightly to their spiritual commitments. He concludes with a reminder of God's warnings to Israel about forgetting Him in times of prosperity.
Early Ministry in India Missionary conf.1965
By J.M. Davies8211:03:43MAT 6:331CO 4:8In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing his desire to serve the Lord and preach the Word of God. He refers to a passage in 1st Olympians chapter 4, where he compares the church in Corinth to the church in Laodicea, highlighting their similarities in being rich and self-sufficient. The speaker criticizes certain methods of evangelism, emphasizing the importance of living and laboring in a place until souls are saved and a church is established. He then shares a vivid illustration of a condemned criminal fighting for his life against a trained swordsman, comparing it to the challenges faced by believers in their spiritual journey. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the transformative power of the love of Christ and the privilege of being a prisoner of Jesus Christ.
Right Jesus, Wrong Time
By Carter Conlon70340:09EXO 17:6PSA 40:1MAT 11:28LUK 24:13JHN 16:331CO 4:81CO 10:42CO 1:8HEB 12:1
This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding that while we have the right Jesus, there is a timing and process to victory that involves trials, suffering, and perseverance. It encourages believers not to spike the ball too soon but to endure through difficulties, knowing that ultimate victory is assured through Christ. The message highlights the need for compassion, patience, and unity within the body of Christ, especially towards those who may have misunderstood the journey of faith.
Epistle 213
By George Fox0Identity in ChristPower Of GodGEN 3:15JOB 37:11PSA 82:6ISA 28:16ISA 61:3MAT 16:18JHN 8:36ROM 8:34ROM 14:171CO 1:241CO 3:111CO 4:8EPH 6:162TI 1:10JAS 2:5George Fox emphasizes the importance of dwelling in the life and power of God, which serves as a firm foundation for believers. He encourages the faithful to recognize Christ as their salvation and wisdom, assuring them that they are preserved in sincerity and integrity through God's power. Fox highlights that true freedom is found in Christ, who has triumphed over darkness and offers life and immortality to His followers. He reassures believers of their identity as children of God and heirs to His everlasting kingdom, filled with joy and peace. Ultimately, he calls for a life of praise and glory to God, who is eternal.
1 Corinthians 4
By John Nelson Darby0Gifts from GodAuthority in Christ1CO 4:8John Nelson Darby explores the depth of the apostle Paul's heart in 1 Corinthians 4, emphasizing the irony in the Corinthians' self-perception of being rich and reigning as kings. He highlights that true judgment comes from God, not from self-assessment, and that all gifts and differences among believers are given by God. Darby also notes Paul's gentle assertion of authority and his commitment to teaching the ways of Christ and the kingdom of God, reminding the Corinthians of their unity in Christ and the source of their gifts.
Epistle 203
By George Fox0GEN 12:2PSA 23:2PSA 145:13ISA 40:31LUK 1:33JHN 10:201CO 4:8EPH 3:21HEB 7:16REV 19:16George Fox preaches about reigning as kings in the Father's hand, following the King of kings who gives abundant life, and experiencing the endless kingdom and dominion with joy and comfort. He encourages dwelling in the light, minding the seed of God, and being diligent in serving the Lord to be a blessing and sweet savour unto Him. Fox emphasizes feeling and knowing the power of an endless life, a kingdom with no end, and a dominion over all dominions, leading to possessing everlasting life and meeting together to wait upon the Lord.
The Church of God in Relation to the Coming of the Lord.
By William Kelly0MRK 10:29JHN 14:2ROM 11:171CO 4:81CO 12:13GAL 4:9EPH 1:181TH 4:162TH 2:2William Kelly preaches about the unique position of the Church of God in relation to Christ's coming, emphasizing the heavenly nature of the Church as distinct from earthly expectations. He highlights the importance of understanding the Church's hope in Christ's return, the need for separation from worldly influences, and the dangers of false teachings and distractions that hinder the true expression of faith and allegiance to the Lord. Kelly stresses the significance of the Church's identification with Christ, the anticipation of His coming as the Bridegroom, and the impending judgment on false elements within Christendom, urging believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now ye - Corinthians are full of secular wisdom; now ye are rich, both in wealth and spiritual gifts; (Co1 14:26): ye have reigned as kings, flourishing in the enjoyment of these things, in all tranquillity and honor; without any want of us: and I would to God ye did reign, in deed, and not in conceit only, that we also, poor, persecuted, and despised apostles, might reign with you. - Whitby. Though this paraphrase appears natural, yet I am of opinion that the apostle here intends a strong irony; and one which, when taken in conjunction with what he had said before, must have stung them to the heart. It is not an unusual thing for many people to forget, if not despise, the men by whom they were brought to the knowledge of the truth; and take up with others to whom, in the things of God, they owe nothing. Reader, is this thy case?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Irony. Translate, "Already ye are filled full (with spiritual food), already ye are rich, ye have seated yourselves upon your throne as kings, without us." The emphasis is on "already" and "without us"; ye act as if ye needed no more to "hunger and thirst after righteousness," and as if already ye had reached the "kingdom" for which Christians have to strive and suffer. Ye are so puffed up with your favorite teachers, and your own fancied spiritual attainments in knowledge through them, that ye feel like those "filled full" at a feast, or as a "rich" man priding himself in his riches: so ye feel ye can now do "without us," your first spiritual fathers (Co1 4:15). They forgot that before the "kingdom" and the "fulness of joy," at the marriage feast of the Lamb, must come the cross, and suffering, to every true believer (Ti2 2:5, Ti2 2:11-12). They were like the self-complacent Laodiceans (Rev 3:17; compare Hos 12:8). Temporal fulness and riches doubtless tended in some cases at Corinth, to generate this spiritual self-sufficiency; the contrast to the apostle's literal "hunger and thirst" (Co1 4:11) proves this. I would . . . ye did reign--Translate, "I would indeed," &c. I would truly it were so, and that your kingdom had really begun. that we also might reign with you-- (Co2 12:14). "I seek not yours, but you." Your spiritual prosperity would redound to that of us, your fathers in Christ (Co1 9:23). When you reach the kingdom, you shall be our "crown of rejoicing, in the presence of our Lord Jesus" (Th1 2:19).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now ye are full,.... That is, in their own opinion: these words, and some following expressions, are an ironical concession. They were not full of God, and divine things; nor of Christ, and of grace out of his fulness; nor of the Holy Ghost, and of faith, as Stephen and Barnabas are said to be; nor of joy and peace in believing; nor of goodness and spiritual knowledge; but they were full of themselves, and were pulled up in their fleshly minds with an opinion of their abilities, learning, oratory, and eloquence, of their ministers, and of their own great improvements in knowledge under their ministrations. They fancied they had got to a perfection in knowledge and were brimful of it; and as the full stomach, from which the metaphor is taken, loathes the honeycomb, so these persons loathed the apostle's ministry, and the pure preaching of the Gospel; imagining that they had attained to something above it, and stood in no need of it; when, alas! they were but babes, children in understanding, and needed milk instead of strong meat; so far were they from being what they thought themselves to be. Now ye are rich; not in faith; nor in good works; nor in spiritual gifts and knowledge, though some among them were; but that is not here intended: the meaning is, they were rich, and abounded in knowledge in their own account. Like the Laodiceans, they conceited themselves to be rich, and increased with goods, when they were poor, and wretched, and miserable. Ye have reigned as kings without us. The saints, in the best sense, are kings, made so by Christ; and have not only the name, and the ensigns of royalty, as crowns and thrones prepared for them, but kingdoms also: they have a kingdom of grace, which they enjoy now, and shall never be removed; in which they reign as kings under the influence of the Spirit of God, over the corruptions of their own hearts, which are laid under the restraints of mighty grace; and over the world, which they have under the feet; and over Satan, who is dethroned and cast out of them; and they shall inherit the kingdom of glory hereafter; but nothing of this kind is here intended. The sense of the words is, that these persons imagined that they had arrived to such a pitch of knowledge, as to be independent of the apostles; needed no instructions and directions from them, and were in great tranquillity and ease of mind, and attended with outward prosperity, so that they lived, as kings, the most happy life that could be desired; upon which the apostle expresses his hearty wish for them: and I would to God ye did reign; not in carnal security, and in affluence of worldly enjoyments, which the apostle was not desirous of for himself, and other his fellow ministers; nor in a spiritual sense, merely as believers in common, and as he then did; but with Christ in his kingdom state here on earth: that we also might reign with you; for all the saints will be together when Christ takes to himself his great power, and reigns; they will all reign with him on earth a thousand years; this is a faithful saying, nothing more true, or to be depended on, that those that suffer with him shall also reign with him; and not a part of his people only, but the whole body: hence the apostle wishes, that this reigning time for the church of Christ was come, then he and the rest of the apostles would reign also: but, alas! it was a plain case, from the condition they were in, of which the following words give a narrative, that this time was not yet.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:8-13 Paul ironically highlights the difference between himself and them. Their attitudes reflect the wisdom of the world; his, the wisdom of God. In their pride, the Corinthians thought they had arrived, but they actually had a long way to go (cp. Rev 3:17-18; contrast Phil 3:12-14). If they had truly arrived, they would be sharing more of the suffering that Paul experienced (1 Cor 4:11-13). In contrast to the Corinthians, who were so proud of their attainments and the respect they had from others, the apostles suffered scorn and contempt.