1 Corinthians 4

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 26 2 8 0 0 4. Divisions in the Church, part 4) (4:1 21)) ) Outline (continued)) 4:1 21 5. Servants of Christ ) 4:1 5 a. Faithfulness ) 4:6 8 b. Pride ) 4:9 13 c. Description ) 4:14 17 d.

Admonition ) 4:18 21 e. Approaching Visit ) ) ) ) 5. Servants of Christ) (4:1 21)) 4 1 So then let a man regard us as Christ s servants and stewards of God s mysteries. 2 In this connection, then, it is required of stewards that one should be found faithful. 3 But to me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court; however, I do not even judge myself. 4 I am not aware of anything against myself, yet not for this reason have I been justified. But the one who judges me is the Lord. 5 Therefore, do not judge anything before the end-time, until the Lord comes, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and will reveal the purposes of the hearts. And then each man s praise will come from God.) 6 Now these things, brothers, I have applied to myself and Apollos for your sake, that from us you might learn not to go beyond what is written, that no one of you might become arrogant, favoring the one over against the other. 7 For who makes you different from anyone else? And what do you have that you did not receive?

And if indeed you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it? 8 You already have everything you need, you already have become rich, without us you have become kings. And I wish that you really had become kings, so that we might reign with you. 9 For I think that God has made us apostles last of all as men condemned to death, that we have become a spectacle to the world, to angles, and to men. 10 We are fools because of Christ, but you are relying on your own insight in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong; you are honored, but we are dishonored. 11 To this present time, we are hungry, thirsty, poorly clothed, beaten, and homeless. 12 We toil with our own hands; when we are scorned, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are slandered, we answer with kind words. We have become like the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now.) 14 I write this not to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my dear children. 15 Even if you have countless attendants in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.) 16 Therefore I urge you to be imitators of me. 17 For this reason, I am sending Timothy to you, who is my dear and faithful child in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways that are in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every church.) 18 Now some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you. 19 But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord wills, and I know not the word of those who are arrogant but the power they have. 20 For the kingdom of God consists not in word but in power. 21 What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod or in love with a spirit of gentleness?) ) In this segment of his epistle, Paul relates that as a servant of Christ he is responsible to his Sender. Christ commands him to be faithful in God s service and to minister to his people.

Eventually, Paul will be judge not by men but by Christ himself for the work he has performed.) a. Faithfulness) 4:1 5) 1. So then let a man regard us as Christ s servants and stewards of God s mysteries.) a. So then. These two words refer to the preceding chapter, in which Paul told the Corinthians not to boast in men, whether they were Paul, Apollos, or Cephas. He instructed them instead to look to Christ, in whom they possess all things.

Further, Christ s servants are fellow workers who are not in competition with one another. By using the words so then, Paul connects are teaching from chapter 3 to what he is about to write.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.4.20|AUTODETECT|” b. Let a man regard us as Christ s servants. Notice that Paul uses the plural in this verse to refer to the apostles and their helpers, but in verse 3 he switches to the singular. With the use of the plural he reminds his readers of the preceding discussion. If all things are theirs in Christ (see 3:21 22), then let each member of the Corinthian church evaluate the apostles as Christ s servants. This word for servant is derived not from diakonos but rather from hypretai (servants under their master).

The word originally described the slaves who rowed below a ship s deck. In the first century, the term took on a broader meaning and signified a domestic worker. For instance, the attendant who took the scroll of Isaiah from Jesus when he preached in Nazareth was a servant in the local synagogue 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��1��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.16|AUTODETECT|” Paul informs the Corinthians that the church should understand the relationship between the apostles and the church and between the apostles and Christ. The apostles are servants in the church, yet the church is not their master; the apostles have been sent by Jesus Christ to serve the church, for the Jesus is their master 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.16|AUTODETECT|” Acts 26:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Thus, the members of the church must respect these apostles who willingly and faithfully serve them in the place of Christ and by his command.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.14|AUTODETECT|” c. And stewards of God s mysteries. A second description of Paul and his fellow workers is conveyed by the word stewards. The term applies to a servant to whom his master has entrusted the oversight of the house. The steward is held responsible for his master s possessions and from time to time must give an account of his stewardship 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.14|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.11-42.19.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.11-42.19.27|AUTODETECT|” 19:11 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��2�� To put it strikingly, Paul and his fellow workers were underlings of Christ and overseers for God. ��3�� In this verse (v. 1), the term stewards does not refer to a house and its owner s personal effects; rather, the noun mysteries shows that it denotes stewards of God s revelation in Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.11|AUTODETECT|” The expression mystery occurs frequently in the New Testament. To be precise, it appears once in Jesus answer concerning his teaching in parables 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.11|AUTODETECT|” and the parallels ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.8.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), twenty-one times in Paul s epistles, and four times in Revelation (1:20; 10:7; 17:5, 7).��4�� But what meaning is Paul trying to convey with this expression?) 1 3 2 8 0 0 We ought not simply to equate the mysteries of God with the gospel of Christ. The mystery is not itself revelation; it is the object of revelation.& Revelation discloses the mystery as such. Hence the mystery of God does not disclose itself. At the appointed time it is in free grace declared by God Himself to those who are selected and blessed by Him. ��5�� The knowledge that God reveals to us is only a glimpse of the entire spectrum of divine knowledge. God s own knowledge will always remain a mystery to the human mind, but from the Scriptures we are able to apprehend Christ s work of redemption. The mystery of redemption is made known to us through God s Word and the working of the Holy Spirit (see the commentary on 2:7).) Paul and his co-workers are stewards of God s mysteries.

As God s instruments they proclaim the gospel; they strengthen believers in their faith; and, through the working of the Holy Spirit, they build the church.) 2. In this connection, then,��6�� it is required of stewards that one should be found faithful.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.12.42|AUTODETECT|” Conclusive statements appear to proliferate in Paul s writing. The last few verses of the preceding chapter (3:21 23) were a summary, and the first verse of this chapter (4:1) also recapitulates that teaching. By saying then, Paul once more draws a conclusion, this time from the preceding context about stewards. The inference is that if Paul and his associates are God s stewards, how do the Corinthians evaluate them? What quality should the members of the Corinthian church examine in regard to these stewards of God s mysteries? Paul s epistle seems to indicate that its recipients appreciate fluency and eloquence.

But the primary requirement for a steward is faithfulness. Stewardship demands dedication that excludes all self-interest and includes sacrificial loyalty 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.10|AUTODETECT|” From the plural stewards, Paul turns to the singular one. He indicates that the requirement to be faithful applies not to the team of workers but to each individual who serves Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.10|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��7�� Every believer must demonstrate fidelity and dedication.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 3. But to me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by a human court; however, I do not even judge myself.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.6.15|AUTODETECT|” a. But to me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you. Paul shows no arrogance but true humility. As a trustworthy steward who checks any self-interest, Paul passes judgement on himself in a self-effacing manner. In typical Old Testament fashion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.6.15|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 6:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Paul repeatedly expresses self-effacement before God and before the readers of his epistles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.1|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.8|AUTODETECT|” The superlative form of the adjective small serves as an introduction to the purpose clause . The verb to judge in this verse signifies to examine, interrogate. Paul frequently endured harsh judgement, first as he labored in Corinth, later when he remained imprisoned in Caesarea, and last when he was in Rome 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 24:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.28.18|AUTODETECT|” 28:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��8�� Paul was not afraid of being examined or interrogated, for he was willing to suffer everything for his Lord. If the Corinthians wished to interrogate him, he would count this procedure a minor matter. Or if they intended to summon him before a human court, he would also regard it as something very small in comparison to appearing before God s judgment seat. Paul was not responsible to the Corinthians but to God, who through Jesus Christ had commissioned him.) 1 9 2 8 0 0 b. Or by a human court. The Greek actually means, a day appointed by a human court. ��9�� But here the expression implies a contrast to the final judgment day when every sinner has to stand before God (3:13). The term human court probably alludes to an ecclesiastical court that was convened to test Paul s apostleship.��10��) c. However, I do not even judge myself. This is not a conceited statement by which Paul places himself above criticism.

Not at all! Paul knows that he cannot be objective in evaluating his own thoughts, words, and deeds. Therefore, he leaves this act of judging to God, who alone can be an impartial judge. This is not to say that Paul wishes to forego any evaluation. Paul is not talking about human deeds which must be examined from time to time; he is talking about his apostleship. This kind of judging belongs to God.) ) Practical Considerations in 4:3) Administrators of educational institutions routinely ask students to evaluate the performance of faculty members in the classroom.

Professors realize the value of this procedure, for the students quite accurately analyze both the weak and strong points of an instructor. Members of the administration are able to assist a teacher in overcoming difficulties and to express thanks for superior performance.) Pastors should be willing to subject themselves to the church s evaluation of their doctrine and life. They ought not to become hostage to fear or to loss of self-esteem. Examinations nations are meant to strengthen pastors in their work and their self-worth. Conversely, if a faithful pastor is going to be examined by members of a congregation who foster evil intentions, he has every reason to object to such an examination. Paul was not afraid of critique; he told the Corinthians that he considered their judgment a small matter.

Regardless of what men think, [a pastor] ought to appeal to God. ��11��) ) ) 4. I am not aware of anything against myself, yet not for this reason have I been justified. But the one who judges me is the Lord.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.27.6|AUTODETECT|” a. I am not aware of anything against myself. In the Greek, the word nothing is placed first for emphasis, and so Paul is saying emphatically that his conscience is clear; he is unaware of any wrongdoing 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.27.6|AUTODETECT|” Job 27:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The comment should not be interpreted that he has silenced his conscience. Rather, he means that with respect to his apostleship, he has been a faithful servant who dutifully has fulfilled all his tasks. By contrast, John Albert Bengel keenly observes, He whom conscience accuses, is held to adjudge his own cause. ��12��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.5|AUTODETECT|” b. Yet not for this reason have I been justified. The lucid wording of this clause expresses a profound truth. If Paul had been justified on the basis of his apostolic faithfulness, he would be teaching a righteousness that could be earned. Justification, however, can never rest on good works performed by man 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), for then the mediatorial work of Christ would have been insufficient or incomplete. On the basis of Christ s perfect work, man is fully justified.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Paul writes the verb to justify in the perfect tense: I have been justified. He indicates that he has already been declared righteous, not because of his own works, but because of Jesus Christ. In his life, Paul demonstrates that he is diligent in his apostolic work, yet with his diligence he did not achieve perfection 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.12-50.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.12-50.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:12 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.17|AUTODETECT|” c. But the one who judges me is the Lord. Jesus Christ is the judge, who himself has fulfilled the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.4|AUTODETECT|” ) and is the end of the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 10:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.1-44.13.3|AUTODETECT|” ). He has a right to judge Paul, for through the Holy Spirit Jesus commissioned him as an apostle to the Gentiles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.1-44.13.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.6-44.18.10|AUTODETECT|” ). Jesus judges Paul with respect to the apostolic service Paul performs in his ministry. The Lord assigns, supervises, and evaluates the work Paul must accomplish, whether in periods of frustration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.6-44.18.10|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:6 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.11|AUTODETECT|” ) or in times of impending hardship 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.11|AUTODETECT|” Acts 23:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ). Hence, Paul tells the Corinthians, he is responsible to the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 5. Therefore, do not judge anything before the end-time, until the Lord comes, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and will reveal the purposes of the hearts. And then each man s praise will come from God.) Note the following points:) a. The Lord s return. Do not judge anything before the end-time, until the Lord comes. Paul now closes the discussion on adverse comments that he and his co-workers have received.

He concludes that because Jesus himself is Paul s judge, the Corinthians should refrain from judging him. He instructs them not to judge anything but to wait until the end-time when the Lord returns. When they with Paul will stand before the judgment seat, then the time will have come to criticize the work performed by Paul (see 6:2 3). The obvious intent of this remark is to show the Corinthians that then they also will face judgment.) Notice that Paul gives the readers an emphatic command, which literally reads: not before the end-time judge anything. Linking the consummation of the age to the return of the Lord, he tells the believers to cease uttering their judgmental comments. He is not saying that they should suspend judging altogether.

Surely not! When a pastor or teacher fails to adhere to the truth of God s Word and in his teachings and life goes contrary to the Scriptures, the church must judge. But Paul forbids criticizing a person whose teaching and conduct are in harmony with Scripture. When Jesus returns and no one knows when that will be every believer may take part in the judging (6:2).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.11|AUTODETECT|” b. The Lord s revelation. Who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and will reveal the purposes of the hearts. The Lord will expose both the external and internal things that pertain to man. He will dispel the darkness and thus bring to light all kinds of things that until then remain hidden. Although the term darkness frequently has a sinister meaning (see, e.g., the blinding of the magician Bar-Jesus [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.11|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ] or the command to expose unfruitful deeds of darkness [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.11|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.12|AUTODETECT|” ]), here the word has only a neutral connotation and refers to matters that are unknown.��13�� God is the ruler of everything he has created, and that includes darkness. David notes that darkness is the same as light to God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 139:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In the judgment day, numerous items that were unknown to the believers will come to light.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Moreover, people are able to hide thoughts and intentions in the inner recesses of their hearts. Many of these intentions never come to light during a person s earthly life. But when Jesus comes again he will expose them, so that all secrets will be disclosed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.11-66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.11-66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.29|AUTODETECT|” c. Praise from God. And then each man s praise will come from God. Who receives praise from God? God commends the person who possesses the inner regenerating power of the Holy Spirit and consequently listens obediently to the Word as a recipient of God s commendation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.12|AUTODETECT|” ). God will graciously apportion praise to the individual believer on the judgment day when Christ reveals all things 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Instead of writing words of rebuke, Paul concludes this section with a positive note on praise. It serves as an exhortation to the Corinthians to desist from judging Paul and his associates and to wait for praise not from men but from God.) ) ) Practical Considerations in 4:5) We should see Paul s emphasis on praise in the context of this particular verse. For example, he begins by indicating when the Christian will receive praise, namely, at the appointed time when Jesus comes. Next, he states that each person will receive praise individually. And last, this praise comes from God, not from human beings.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Scripture definitely teaches that there will be rewards in heaven for the Christian. Jesus says, Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.21|AUTODETECT|” ).��14�� The Bible teaches not that a person can earn salvation, but rather that God showers his praise on the believer who faithfully does God s will. Thus, in the teaching of the parable of the talents, we hear Jesus say about both the servant with the five talents and the servant with two talents, Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , NKJV).) 1 34 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 4:1 5) Verses 1 2) ������� this noun is used in an indefinite and general sense that signifies one. This is how one (i.e., you) regard us. ��15��) g�� the particle looks back to the word stewards in verse 1 and means on showing that ; the adverb ������ looks forward, signifying it follows that. ��16��) �������� it is required. Many leading manuscripts have the second person plural imperative ������� (require!) instead. The imperative continues the series �������� (3:21), ��������� (v. 1). However, it can also be indicative . Translators prefer the impersonal, third person singular, because it balances the second part of the sentence, which has the third person singular .) Verse 3) �������� this is the intensive use of the superlative adjective from ������ and is translated very small.

The true superlative is least (see 15:9). The 5�� clause follows the intensive superlative and explains its meaning: that I should be judged. ) Verses 4 5) � ����� this prepositional clause means for that reason and expresses a causal idea.) A �������� the present active participle of the verb ������� (I examine) shows not action in the future but continued action in the present.) e��� an inferential particle that signifies and so, accordingly (see 3:7).��17��) A ������ the noun is preceded by a definite article to emphasize that praise is given to individual Christians.) ) ) b. Pride) 4:6 8) 6. Now these things, brothers, I have applied to myself and Apollos for your sake, that from us you might learn not to go beyond what is written, that no one of you might become arrogant, favoring the one over against the other.) a. Application. Now these things, brothers, I have applied.

Once more Paul addresses his readers with the salutation brothers, which in the parlance of that day included the sisters.��18�� He uses this greeting to prepare his audience for the personal and direct message that follows. And he wants to be pastoral in his approach.) What are these things that Paul has applied? This question must be answered in connection with the meaning of the verb to apply. Other translations read) have figuratively transferred (NKJV)) into this general picture (NEB)) to change the form of (Bauer, p. 513)) In short, Paul is saying that he wants to use a figure of speech with these things. In the preceding chapter Paul uses images borrowed from agriculture and the building trade; in the immediate context, he uses the imagery of stewards. Hence, the words these things encompass the three metaphors which Paul has written in 3:5 4:5.��19��) Paul states that what he has written to the Corinthians he has applied to himself and Apollos for the benefit of his readers.

Both Paul and Apollos had served the church of Corinth for extended periods of time. But by not mentioning Peter, he indirectly calls attention to his earlier remark that Paul and Apollos are Christ s servants charged with the task of proclaiming God s mysteries (3:5; 4:1).��20�� He applies the figurative language of the gardener, builder, and steward to himself and Apollos.��21�� These portrayals, says Paul, are for the benefit of the Corinthians.) b. Learning. That from us you might learn not to go beyond what is written. Scholars have spilled much ink in an effort to explain this part of the text. A few examples show various ways to translate this phrase:) That you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written (NKJV)) May you learn from us not to go beyond what is set down (NAB)) So that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, Do not go beyond what is written (NIV)) You may be taught the truth of the words, Nothing beyond what is written (Cassirer)) These examples reveal not so much different translations of the Greek text as differences in understanding the text itself.

Some scholars are of the opinion that the words not to go beyond what is written are an unintelligible gloss that should be deleted.��22�� But there is no textual evidence to substantiate the claim that these words are a gloss. Furthermore, omission of these words makes the verse itself incoherent. Most scholars think that these words are evidently a proverb, or a principle in proverbial form. ��23�� It may have been a saying that was current in the political arena of Paul s day and served to promote unity. Paul, say these scholars, uses a maxim familiar in Corinthian circles to urge an end to the divisions in the church and to foster unity.) Nonetheless, when Paul borrows the phrase what is written, is he referring to the Old Testament Scriptures? Presumably, yes! The proverb itself must convey a message, which in the context of the two epistles to the Corinthians signifies the Scriptures.

And in these letters, the Greek word gegraptai (it is written) frequently introduces quotations from the Sriptures.��24�� Paul quotes repeatedly from the books of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings. In total, there are seventeen Old Testament quotations in I Corinthians and ten in II Corinthians.) Paul s stern warning to the Corinthians not to go beyond what is written appropriates additional meaning in chapter 10. After citing a few incidents from the history of the people of Israel, he asserts: Now these things happened to them as a warning and were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come (10:11). It would indeed be too restrictive to limit Paul s warning not to go beyond what is written to the six Scripture passages he has quoted in the first three chapters of I Corinthians (1:19, 31; 2:9, 16; 3:19, 20). Conclusively, Paul refers to the entire Old Testament revelation.) c. Arrogance.

That no one of you might become arrogant, favoring the one over against the other. The last part of this verse is important, for in the succeeding verses (vv. 7 8) Paul continues to condemn pride, the basic theme of this segment.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.40.12|AUTODETECT|” The crux of what Paul is saying relates to the division in the Corinthian church: the one party favors Paul and the other party Apollos. Strutting about like ruffled roosters, members of each party arrogantly set themselves against one another. Were it not so serious, it would be comical to watch the individual members of the church parading the favorites of their parties. Paul forbids every one of the Corinthians to foster the factionalism that is rampant in the church (1:12; 3:4). Let no one trumpet his preference for one leader, whether Paul or Apollos, but let each believer strive to learn from them what the Scriptures have to say. They must learn from their leaders to listen to the teachings of God s Word.��25�� In numerous places, the Scriptures warn the people against arrogance 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.40.12|AUTODETECT|” Job 40:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.8.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The Corinthians must learn meekness and understand that everything they possess they have received from God. They hear God speaking to them from the pages of the Scriptures.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 7. For who makes you different from anyone else? And what do you have that you did not receive? And if indeed you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?) Paul asks that Corinthians three questions:) a. Who makes you different from anyone else? Paul addresses each member of the church by using the singular personal pronoun you.

He challenges the individual who arrogantly desires to show off his superiority to state from whom he received the rank he has assumed. The question which Paul places before the puffed-up individual is rhetorical and receives a negative reply: Of course, no one! ��26�� Certainly Paul did not create a party in his name, and God did not grant any superiority to individual Corinthians. An arrogant person is unable to appeal to anyone for support.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.27|AUTODETECT|” b. What do you have that you did not receive? Paul again poses a rhetorical question addressed to the individual believer. This query also receives a negative reply: Nothing! Asked what he or she possesses, every Corinthian must acknowledge the source of everything listed. An honest answer must be that God has supplied every material and spiritual gift 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.27|AUTODETECT|” John 3:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.17|AUTODETECT|” James 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Each one is indebted to God and must praise him for these possessions and thus has no grounds for arrogance.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 c. If indeed you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it? The third question follows up the second. That is, if a person has received a gift either a spiritual or a material asset he is obligated to express thanks. It would be the height of ingratitude not to acknowledge its source and hence to snub the donor by not expressing thanks to him. The recipient of these gifts then acts as if he had always possessed them and thus poses as their rightful owner.

If God grants grace, then his people become the recipients of untold blessings. Because they are fully dependent on God, they cannot take any credit for their acquisitions.��27��) 8. You already have everything you need, you already have become rich, without us you have become kings. And I wish that you really had become kings, so that we might reign with you.) a. Contrast. You already have everything you need.

Paul again switches to the second person plural you and speaks to the church. He observes that the Corinthians think that they have filled their spiritual and material demands; they have no need of anything or anyone else. In stark contrast to reality, they considered themselves successful in church and society and, in effect, fostered the misconception that they were superior to everyone else.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.17|AUTODETECT|” You already have become rich. Self-sufficient people delude themselves, for they believe that they are rich when they are poverty-stricken. For instance, Jesus rebukes the church of Laodicea: You say, I am rich; I have indeed acquired wealth and do not need a thing. But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Without us you have become kings. Paul resorts to using phrases that circulated among the Stoic philosophers of that day (see the commentary on 3:21).��28�� These philosophers prided themselves on being self-sufficient, and the Corinthians appeared to be influenced by their teaching. Instead of seeing themselves as citizens in God s kingdom, the Corinthian Christians act as if they are rulers in that kingdom. They claim to be kings rather than subjects of the king.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.12|AUTODETECT|” b. Irony. And I wish that you really had become kings, so that we might reign with you. In this verse, Paul s tone is laced with irony. He expresses his wish that God s kingdom had indeed appeared and the Corinthian believers would be reigning with Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If that were the case, he and Apollos would readily take a seat of royal honor next to them. But because the opposite is true, he uses sarcasm to shake the readers of his epistle. They fail to acknowledge that Christ s servants (Paul, Apollos, and others) had taught them about God s kingdom and had led them to Christ. Now they claim to be independent of these servants and deceive themselves by pretending to be rulers. The ironic comment conveys to them that they are ahead of Paul and his associates, who are still waiting for the coming of the kingdom.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 4:6 8) Verses 6 7) In the Majority Text, the present infinitive ������� (to think) occurs after the verb ��������� (it is written; see KJV, NKJV). Both older and more geographically representative manuscripts, however, omit the infinitive.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.17|AUTODETECT|” 5�� �t & ��������� the verb in the second person plural middle is a present subjunctive in the context of a purpose clause 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.17|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The phrase �7� Q�r� ��� ��� means each one on behalf of one against the other (none & in favor of one against the other). ��29��) 1 9 2 8 0 0 The simple condition introduced by �0 expresses reality; it features the conjunction ���, which is intensive and is translated indeed. ) Verse 8) ������������ ��� the periphrastic construction with the perfect passive participle of ��������� (I satiate) and the verb to be in the present tense second person plural signifies that for a considerable time the Corinthians have had all the things they needed.) The verbs ���������� (you have become rich) and ����������� (you have become kings) are ingressive aorists; that is, the Corinthians have become rich and from their perspective continue to be rich.) ) ) c. Description) 4:9 13) 9. For I think that God has made us apostles last of all as men condemned to death, that we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.23-44.19.41|AUTODETECT|” If Paul expressed irony in the preceding verses (vv. 7 8), here (vv. 9 13) he realistically assesses his present condition. We assume that Paul refers to what he had recently endured in Ephesus. He composed this epistle about the time the riot occurred 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.23-44.19.41|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:23 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The Corinthians were acquainted with Paul s predicament as he describes the plight of an apostle. This plight is the opposite of Paul s caustic remark that he wished to be a king with the Corinthians and rule with them (v. 8). Instead of being at the top and reigning, he is at the bottom and faces persecution and death.) a. For I think that God has made us apostles. Paul is not critical but observes only that God appoints men to be apostles. He accepts this appointment as a fact, but he has his own reflection on the significance of being an apostle. (The plural apostles is not specific but refers to the general category apostle.) He has experienced that because of his apostleship he is subject to ridicule, hatred, physical and verbal abuse, and the possibility of death.

The phrase I think is an aside and should be understood in the light of the entire sentence.) b. Last of all as men condemned to death. God has placed the apostles last, as it were in a victory parade,��30�� in which the conquerors appear first and the conquered last. This place marks them as victims who soon face death at either the hand of man or the teeth of wild beasts.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.29|AUTODETECT|” c. We have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Paul employs the word theatron , from which we have the derivative theater. Note that this same Greek word appears twice in Luke s account of the riot, where Paul s associates Gaius and Aristarchus were dragged into the theater 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and were made a spectacle for the crowd. At amphitheaters, anyone and everyone could be present to watch the executions of slaves and criminals. Paul s statement that he is a spectacle to the world, therefore, is no exaggeration.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 In apposition to the word world, Paul adds the two nouns angels and men. What a contrast between these two categories! Angels are sent by God to minister and be of service to his elect. Thus, when God s people endure suffering and face death, angels support and strengthen them. Angels observe everything and as messengers bring a report to God. By contrast, men are cruel and coldhearted; they take delight in seeing fellow human beings who in arenas face wild beasts that tear them to pieces.) If the Corinthians should take a moment to reflect on the life of Christ s apostles, they would have to admit that the apostles are at the opposite end of the spectrum from ruling monarchs.) 10.

We are fools because of Christ, but you are relying on your own insight in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong; you are honored, but we are dishonored.) a. We are fools. Self-esteem is a basic ingredient of a balanced life, and to be called a fool is a degrading experience that can severely alter one s self-image. If a person asserts that he himself is a fool, we would suppose that irony is lacing the voice of the speaker. And that is exactly the case in the present verse.��31��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.19|AUTODETECT|” Paul states that he and his fellow apostles are fools because of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 14:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.22-44.16.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.22-44.16.25|AUTODETECT|” 16:22 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.10|AUTODETECT|” 17:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12|AUTODETECT|” 18:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). From a human perspective, Paul and the other apostles are fools to risk their lives for the sake of Christ. Yet there is an obvious double entendre: They also thereby reflect the truth of the gospel, which is folly in the eyes of the worldly wise. ��32��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.19|AUTODETECT|” b. But you are relying on your own insight in Christ. The apostles are fools in the eyes not only of the world but also of the Corinthian believers. Paul s sarcasm is harsh when he tells the recipients of his epistle that they consider themselves to be intelligent and discerning believers in Christ. He intends to convey the contrary because their wisdom is purely human wisdom that has nothing to do with divine wisdom in Christ.��33�� We would have expected the Corinthians to be receptive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit (2:12). In their opposition to Paul, however, they are influenced by worldly wisdom 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.19|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and separated from Christ and the Holy Spirit. Instead of turning to Christ for wisdom, they rely on their own faulty insight. With his use of irony, Paul attempts to make them see their arrogance.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. We are weak, but you are strong; you are honored, but we are dishonored. Here is still more irony. Paul contrasts the lot the apostles with that of the Corinthians. He readily proclaims the weakness of Christ s servants in a world in which weakness is despised and strength is praised. Then in reverse order he contrasts the honor which the Corinthians have received with the dishonor that has been ascribed to the apostles.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.5|AUTODETECT|” Elsewhere Paul contrasts his weakness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.5|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.4|AUTODETECT|” 13:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ) with the virtues of power and strength. He considers his own weakness to be a mark of a true follower of Jesus Christ, for it is Christ who strengthens him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.9|AUTODETECT|” ). He takes Jesus revelation concerning Paul s weakness as an occasion of boasting; he says that Christ s power has been made perfect in him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The Corinthians, by contrast, claim to be strong but are weak without the close fellowship of Christ. They should be mighty in the Lord; indeed, they have been called and sanctified by him (1:2, 9).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The Corinthians profess to be honored. But because they seek to fuse the things of Christ with the things of the world, they heap nothing but shame on themselves. Conversely, the apostles are mocked, scorned, and dishonored by unbelievers; yet because of their intimate fellowship with Jesus, they are honored by God.) 11. To this present time, we are hungry, thirsty, poorly clothed, beaten, and homeless. 12. We toil with our own hands; when we are scorned, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13. when we are slandered, we answer with kind words. We have become like the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now.) Paul employs irony in only a few remarks.

He draws attention to the life the apostles live but does not want to discourage the readers. He is not asking for pity, but he desires the Corinthians to know that true servants of Christ must endure affliction and reproach.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.8-47.4.9|AUTODETECT|” a. To this present time, we are hungry, thirsty, poorly clothed, beaten, and homeless. This description tallies with other passages in which Paul catalogs calamities: beatings, floggings, imprisonments, riots, shipwrecks, sleepless nights, hunger, thirst, cold, and mortal perils 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.8-47.4.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:8 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4-47.6.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4-47.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 6:4 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.23-47.11.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.23-47.11.27|AUTODETECT|” 11:23 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” ; see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ).��34�� In addition, Paul must have suffered an almost fatal illness when he resided in the province of Asia, perhaps in Ephesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 1:18 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 When Paul writes that he was beaten, the Greek verb indicates that he was pummeled with fists by people who rejected Christ s gospel. The verb generally refers to mistreatment Paul often had to endure.��35�� The word homeless does not mean that Paul lacked a roof over his head. Rather, it implies that he was a wanderer without a fixed abode.��36�� During his frequent travels, he presumably used a tent which he himself had constructed.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.7|AUTODETECT|” Jesus had given his disciples the command that the worker must receive his wages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul clarified his command by saying that those who preach the gospel should be supported by those who hear it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.5.18|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Paul himself took no advantage of that ruling; he preferred to work with his own hands so as not to hinder the progress of the gospel (9:12b). As a result, Paul frequently had an inadequate supply of food, liquid, and clothing.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.3|AUTODETECT|” b. We toil with our own hands. Every Jewish boy had to learn a trade, usually from his father, to support himself. Jesus became a carpenter, John and James fishermen, and Paul a tentmaker. Even though Paul s trade was considered menial, he was not all ashamed of it. In both Acts and Paul s epistles, references to Paul s readiness to work with his own hands abound 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.34|AUTODETECT|” 20:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.6|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.8|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Yet in the Hellenistic culture of that day, Greeks disdained manual labor.��37�� They were of the opinion that physical labor had to be performed by slaves. By working with his hands Paul lowered his status in the eyes of local citizens.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. When we are scorned, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure. The world is unable to understand this attitude Paul describe, In today s rough-and tough world, countless people live by the slogan, I don t get mad, I get even. Scorn meets scorn and persecution encounters reaction.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.24|AUTODETECT|” The Jews observed the rule, Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.24|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 21:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.24.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.24.20|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 24:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.19.21|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.39|AUTODETECT|” ). But Jesus taught them, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.& Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.28|AUTODETECT|” ; see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The apostles adopt the teaching of Jesus and demonstrate his instruction in their daily lives.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.5|AUTODETECT|” The verbs that Paul writes in this passage are in the present tense to indicate that the apostles were constantly mocked and persecuted. In response, they continued to bless their enemies and endure persecution. Paul literally says that in respect to persecution, we are putting up with it. The apostles learned to live with oppression in a spirit of meekness consistent with the teachings of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.9-40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.9-40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” 9 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 d. When we are slandered, we answer with kind words. The verb to slander actually means to misquote or to misrepresent someone. The word conveys the idea of shading the truth so as to place someone in a bad light. The medicine which Paul prescribes is difficult to take: We answer in a kind manner. ��38�� In the light of Paul s description of apostolic conduct, this translation indeed fits the context. Paul is saying that even when the truth is turned into a lie, he continues to love his accusers.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” e. We have become like the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. The language Paul uses to depict himself and the rest of the apostles is picturesque. He refers to the scum or refuse that is wiped away in a thorough cleaning of a house or a building. Then he adds that they are the offscouring of all things. This appears to be a synonymous expression.

But in Greek literature, the word peripsma (offscouring) was often used in connection with annually sacrificing criminals or deformed persons. They were the scum of society. ��39�� These offerings were made for the benefit of society. Likewise, the apostles are representatives of Jesus, who was regarded as a criminal and placed on a cross for the benefit of the people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.11.50|AUTODETECT|” John 11:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Although Jesus gave himself as the supreme sacrifice for the sins of mankind, the apostles also suffered physically for the sake of Christ s gospel. Despised by society and considered trash, the apostles could find strength and consolation in the Lord. They knew that during their earthly life, they would have to endure the derision of the world. Hence, Paul writes the phrase until now. While he was writing this epistle in Ephesus, he may very well have heard some kind of ominous chant from the local people: Christians to the lions! (15:32).��40��) ) Practical Considerations in 4:11 13) Statistics reveal that the church increases numerically and spiritually in countries where persecutions, hardships, poverty, corruption, and distress are common. By comparison, church membership declines steadily in countries that exude affluence and ease.

Whenever Christians are surrounded by material ease and comfort, they often tend to forget the claims of Christ. They become self-sufficient and, while maintaining a religious veneer, have lost their love for Christ and the message of salvation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Should Christians, then, rejoice in persecution and affliction? They ought never to seek persecution for its own sake. But when they are obedient to the gospel, they will be rejected by the world and have to endure persecution. To them Jesus says, Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ). Followers of Jesus experience that worldly friends forsake them. They undergo verbal abuse that is frequently accompanied by physical and mental agony. In effect, they struggle against spiritual forces controlled by Satan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Yet they rejoice, for they will receive their reward.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Should Christians, then, seek poverty to be alive spiritually? Not necessarily. Abraham is known as the father of believers, yet God blessed him with numerous earthly possessions. Similarly, Job was tried, tested, and strengthened in his faith. Yet God blessed him with untold riches. Material wealth, however, should always be subservient to the cause of Christ and should never become the Christian s master. As Paul puts it, Greed & is idolatry 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.37-40.22.40|AUTODETECT|” ). Jesus teaches that a believer should love God with heart, soul, and mind, and love his fellow man as himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.37-40.22.40|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:37 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Then he will be rich in Christ, even though he is considered a pauper by the world.) 1 27 2 8 0 0 Henry F. Lyte gave poetic expression to his personal desire to follow Jesus and to accept the consequences:) Jesus, I my cross have taken,) All to leave, and follow Thee;) Destitute, despised, forsaken,) Thou from hence my all shalt be;) Perish every fond ambition,) All I ve sought or hoped or known;) Yet how rich is my condition:) God and heaven are still my own.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 4:9 13) Verses 9 10) ���� ��� a parenthetical statement that means for in my opinion ; numerous manuscripts that reflect age and wide geographic representation delete the conjunction E�� (that).) �� ����� the noun in the dative case is explained by the indefinite nouns ������� and �������� and means to the world, both to angels and to men. ��41��) !���� & Q���� note, first, the position of these two personal pronouns (at the beginning and the end of the three sentences, which denotes emphasis); next, their repetition; and last, their reversed order in the last sentence.) Verses 11 12) ��� ��� ��� e��� until this moment. This segment (vv. 11 13) begins and ends with a time reference, �� ��� (until now).) Except for the aorist passive ��������� (we have become) in verse 13, this entire segment has all the finite verbs and the participles in the present tense.) ������������� the present participle of �������� (I scorn) can have a concessive meaning .) Verse 13) ����������� this compound of ���� (around) and the noun derived from the verb �������� (I cleanse) signifies the residue from scrubbing an object. The -�� ending of this noun denotes the result of the action.) �������� from the preposition ���� and the verb ��� (I wipe, rub), it indicates that which has been scraped off. ) ) ) d. Admonition) 4:14 17) 14. I write this not to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my dear children.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.13|AUTODETECT|” Paul has harshly rebuked the Corinthians but turns to them as a loving father who cares for his offspring 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.13|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). One thing children dread most is to be put to shame in the presence of their friends. Shame places an indelible mark on their minds, which, so it seems, they are unable to erase. The church at Corinth does not want to be disgraced in the presence of the other churches in Achaia, Macedonia, and Asia Minor (compare 6:5; II Cor. (9:4).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 After a negative statement, not to make you ashamed, Paul utters a positive remark, to admonish you. He wants the Corinthians to listen to him for their own benefit. He admonishes them to pay attention to his words, for in Christ he is their father and they are his dear children. His words are the words of a father who in love corrects his children.��42�� Paul addresses the Corinthians in genuine love; thus he writes the adjective dear, which in older translations is beloved. In the succeeding verses, he reveals the content of his admonition.��43��) 15. Even if you have countless attendants in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.) a.

Even if you have countless attendants in Christ. With an overstatement, Paul calls attention to the concept father. He says to the Corinthians, Now suppose for a moment that, in addition to Apollos and myself, you had been guarded by innumerable attendants who led you to Christ. Nevertheless, I am your spiritual father who first taught you the gospel. Paul employs the term paidagMgos, from which we have the derivative pedagogue. In Hellenistic culture, a pedagogue was either a household slave or a freedman who accompanied a child (or the children) of well-to-do parents to and from school.

He was appointed to tutor the child in proper conduct, chide him whenever necessary, guard him from danger and evil influences, and to give him an interest in correct speech, grammar, and diction.��44�� He helped a boy do his homework, nursed him when sick, and attended to his needs until the boy reached adolescence.) Paul purposely exaggerates when he suggests that the Corinthians would have ten thousand pedagogues to guard, chide, and correct them in respect to Christian conduct and teaching. Note that a father employed a pedagogue always remained in charge of his son s education. The father was much closer to the son than the pedagogue could ever be.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.11|AUTODETECT|” b. You do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. Each person can have countless teachers, but only one biological father. So Paul observes that the Corinthians could presumably have innumerable pedagogues to lead them to Christ, but each one could not have many spiritual fathers. For eighteen months Paul labored to plant the church at Corinth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.11|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Hence, he could truthfully say that in Christ Jesus he was the spiritual progenitor of the Corinthian church. From a Jewish perspective, a teacher who taught students the content of the Torah (the Old Testament Scriptures, other Jewish sacred literature, and oral tradition) was considered a father.��45�� In that capacity, Paul asserted his apostolic authority with respect to those members of the church who questioned it.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 If we look at this matter from a different perspective, we see that the church did not bring forth the apostles; rather, Jesus Christ endowed the apostles, who went forth to found the church. Although other workers, among whom were Timothy, Silas, Apollos, and Titus, came to Corinth to assist in teaching and edifying the members of the church, Paul exercised lasting authority over them.��46�� Through Christ s gospel Paul is able to call himself the father of the Corinthians.) 16. Therefore I urge you to be imitators of me. 17. For this reason, I am sending Timothy to you, who is my dear and faithful child in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways that are in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every church.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.12|AUTODETECT|” a. Imitators. Paul brought the gospel to the Corinthians, witnessed their spiritual birth, taught them the Christian way of life, urged to follow Christ, and demonstrated his unwavering love for them. Now he directs them to become his imitators and adopt his personal testimony of Christ.��47�� By implication, Paul urges them to imitate Christ, who reveals himself in the gospel. Elsewhere in this epistle he writes, Be imitators of me, just as I am of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.7|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). What Paul is trying to say is that one who is imitating Paul is imitating Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Speaking as their spiritual father, Paul expects the Corinthians to follow his example. From the moment they are born, children are dependent on their parents for survival, care, guidance, and teaching. They copy the parents way of life, learn elementary truths, and adopt their basic values. Children not only physically but also spiritually reflect the likeness of their father and mother. The closer the relationship of parent and child, the more the similarities develop. ��48�� This close relationship, of course, is founded on love. Paul demonstrates his love toward his spiritual offspring by calling them his beloved children (v. 14, NKJV).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.1|AUTODETECT|” b. Offspring. Most translators render the Greek literally: I have sent or I sent, which implies that Paul instructed Timothy to travel to Corinth. Yet we have no evidence that Timothy ever arrived in Corinth (but see 16:10 11). About this time (a.d. 55), Paul began writing the First Epistle to the Corinthians. If Timothy had been with Paul at that time, we would have expected Paul to include his name in the greetings, as in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.1|AUTODETECT|” II Corinthians 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Other translators prefer the present tense of the verb: I am sending. The reasoning is that when a writer sent a letter or a messenger, he would place himself in the position of the recipients. For the recipient the act of sending occurred in the past. But from the sender s point of view, this happened in the present.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.5|AUTODETECT|” For this reason, I am sending Timothy to you, who is my dear and faithful child in the Lord. Along with the letter, Paul is sending Timothy to the Corinthians. Timothy became acquainted with the faith of his grandmother Lois and his mother, Eunice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.8-44.14.21|AUTODETECT|” ); we assume that he was converted when Paul and Barnabas came to Lystra and Derbe on their first missionary journey 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.8-44.14.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 14:8 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.1-44.16.3|AUTODETECT|” ). When Timothy eventually accompanied Paul, he was heartily recommended by the Christians in Lystra 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.1-44.16.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and presumably had been a believer for some time.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Paul called Timothy my dear faithful child in the Lord, This means that Paul considered himself Timothy s spiritual father. As a natural father normally loves his son, so Paul deeply loved his spiritual father. As a natural father normally loves his son, so Paul deeply loved his spiritual son 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.2|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.2|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; compare ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.10|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.15|AUTODETECT|” ). And Timothy proved to be Paul s faithful child in working for the Lord. We learn from Acts and Paul s epistles that Timothy often completed tasks that Paul himself was hindered from doing. For example, when Paul had to leave Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea, Timothy went there to work in his place 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.15|AUTODETECT|” Acts 17:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.22|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.1-52.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.1-52.3.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 c. Instruction. [Timothy] will remind you of my ways that are in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every in every church. As Paul s spiritual son, Timothy must refresh the memory of Paul s spiritual children in Corinth. He has to remind them of Paul s Christian conduct, mentioned here as ways that are in Christ Jesus. These ways relate to the work Paul performed while he was with the Corinthians: teaching, preaching, counseling, shaping, nurturing, and praying. They pertain to the work Paul accomplished on behalf of Jesus Christ and the building of the church.) Paul intimates that even though he has not visited the church in Corinth for some time, let no one think that he has not been busy elsewhere.

He has been teaching, chiefly in Ephesus and the province of Asia. And his teaching there is similar to what the Corinthians received some years earlier. Furthermore, Paul believes in and contends for the unity of the church of Jesus Christ (see 7:17; 14:33). There is, therefore, no place for divisions and doctrines that are contrary to the gospel.) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 4:14 17) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.9|AUTODETECT|” When Paul writes that he is the father of the Corinthian Christians, we immediately think of the words Jesus spoke when he pronounced his woes over the Pharisees: And do not call anyone on earth father, for you have one Father, and he is in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Is Paul disregarding Jesus command? Not necessarily. Jesus words must be understood in the context in which they were spoken.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.8|AUTODETECT|” In his discourse against the Pharisees, Jesus tells the twelve disciples and the crowds to reject the title rabbi as a name for themselves, for they have only one Master 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.8|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 23:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Then he says that no one should call them father, because God is their Father. The term the fathers became a very common way of referring to earlier teachers of the law, especially the great masters. ��49�� Jesus warns against the use of titles that foster pride in the persons who are so honored. In the New Testament, Paul and the other apostles are never addressed as father. When Paul uses the figure of speech of father and children, he qualifies this by saying: In Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel (v. 15). Not Paul but Jesus Christ receives glory and honor.) 1 17 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 4:14 17) Verse 14) �P� ������� the negative particle �P� precedes the present active participle of ������ (I make ashamed). Normally the particle �� controls participles, but here the contrast of the words �P & ��� calls for a departure from the rule.��50��) �������� from the verb �������� (I warn), this reading with the present participle is preferred to the finite verb �������. Both readings have equal manuscript support, yet the use of the participle appears to be a dominant feature in Paul s writings.) Verse 15) ������� this adjective in the accusative masculine plural means not ten thousands but rather innumerable. ��51��) p� & ���� with the verb in the subjunctive, the conditional sentence expresses skepticism. The adverb ��� in the apodosis signifies at least. ) �| Q��� notice these two personal pronouns placed next to each other to indicate the close relationship of Paul and the Corinthians.) Verse 17) ����� the aorist active of ����� (I send) is probably the epistolary aorist, I am sending. ) E� Q��� �������� who will remind you. This clause expresses purpose; it functions as a parallel to the preceding clause, who is my dear and faithful child. ) ) ) e. Approaching Visit) 4:18 21) 18.

Now some of you have become arrogant, as if I were not coming to you. 19. But I will come to you very soon, if the Lord wills, and I will know not the word of those who are arrogant but the power they have.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.9-47.10.10|AUTODETECT|” a. Arrogance. Paul returns to a discussion of the arrogance that was exhibited by some Corinthians (see v. 6), for this sin remains a persistent evil in the congregation. It appears not only in the form of a divisive spirit but also in a lack of respect for Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.9-47.10.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 10:9 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Before he turns his attention to disciplinary matters, Paul once more urges those people who are arrogant leaders to take note (compare 1:11 12; 3:3 4).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Personified as wisdom, the Lord says: I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b). These are the sins that some of the Corinthians committed (compare 5:2; 8:1). Paul wants these proud Corinthians to acknowledge their offense and to repent, so that this evil might not permeate the entire congregation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.21|AUTODETECT|” b. Intention. Arrogance blinds a person to reality. The haughty leaders in Corinth thought that Paul would stay in Ephesus and not visit the Corinthians. They underestimated Paul s loving concern for the church and his intention to visit the churches in Macedonia and Achaia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.3-50.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul daily remembered the churches in prayer and continued to have a personal interest in their spiritual well-being 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.3-50.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:3 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.3-51.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.3-51.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:3 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.2-52.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.2-52.1.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:2 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He was determined to visit them, even if their leaders were spreading the rumor that Paul would not come to Corinth. They probably felt secure, thinking that the presence of Timothy conveyed the apostle s lack of interest in the Corinthian church. However, they know very well that Paul is equipped with power from God. ��52��) 1 5 2 8 0 0 c. Assertion. I will come to you very soon, if the Lord wills. Paul speaks with determination, for he is indeed going to visit the Corinthian church. He writes that he is coming very soon. After traveling through Macedonia, he intends to arrive in Corinth and spend some time, perhaps an entire winter (16:5 7).

He even tells them that he will leave Ephesus after Pentecost (16:8), probably in a.d. 56.) Paul qualifies his intentions with the clause if God wills (see also 16:7). He knows that he serves the Lord, who sends him wherever Paul s presence is needed. He is not his own master but belongs to his Lord Jesus Christ.) d. Purpose. And I will know not the word of those who are arrogant but the power they have. Paul is not interested in learning what his opponents have to say, for their accusations were uttered while he was away.

He wants to know what influence these leaders have had on the church members. Should these men be filled with the Holy Spirit, they would be able to give positive leadership in the church. But if they were without the Spirit, they would lack the ability to build the church. Paul plans to spend time in Corinth to find out if these leaders have been endowed with spiritual power to advance the cause of Christ.) 20. For the kingdom of God consists not in word but in power.) In the concluding remarks to this part of his letter, Paul carefully chooses his words. With the concept kingdom, he calls to mind God s worldwide power and influence.

Paul had earlier mocked the Corinthians by calling them kings (v. 8), but now he teaches them the doctrine that Christ reigns with power throughout his kingdom.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” This is the first time that Paul employs the word kingdom in his epistle. Although the term itself appears chiefly in the synoptic Gospels, it also occurs frequently in Paul s epistles.��53�� In many passages, Paul features the present aspect of Christ s kingdom. For instance, the kingdom is a matter not of food and drink 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 14:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.20|AUTODETECT|” ), not of arrogant talk, but of power 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ) and of lives that are worthy of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ). In other texts, he highlights the eschatological aspect of the kingdom: wicked people do not inherit it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:19 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18|AUTODETECT|” In his references to the kingdom, Paul places appropriate emphasis on the lordship of Jesus Christ. The exercise of lordship implies the exercise of a dominion which is closely akin to the idea of dynamic rule seen in the teaching of Jesus. ��54�� Even though Paul omits the name Jesus in this verse, the kingdom of God belongs to Christ. To him has been given all authority in heaven and on earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ). In God s kingdom, then, Jesus Christ rules supremely by exercising spiritual power 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). We enter that kingdom only because God s saving power transforms us in a wonderful way and makes us partakers of his kingdom. ��55��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 21. What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod or in love with a spirit of gentleness?) Paul ends his discourse by asking two direct questions. In his first question, he asks his readers what they want him to do; in his second he gives them a choice. Do they desire to be punished or to be loved? He puts the question not merely to those who are arrogant but to the entire Corinthian church. Everyone in the congregation shares the blame for the damage that divisiveness and arrogance have caused. Because of their corporate responsibility, they must now respond to Paul s question.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.1.8|AUTODETECT|” a. Shall I come to you with a rod? How do we interpret the word rod? It can be understood literally or figuratively. Is Paul coming to Corinth as a schoolmaster or a pedagogue who applies the rod to unruly pupils?��56�� This literal interpretation would suit the context in which Paul mentioned pedagogues who were given the task of correcting the behavior of children (v. 15). Yet, a figurative explanation has merit if we understand Paul to come to Corinth with a word of power. ��57�� Paul offers to come to the Corinthians with a rod of spiritual power given to him by Jesus Christ.

He is Christ s representative and in that capacity is able to correct the people with the authoritative Word of God. The New Testament depicts Christ endowed with absolute power that is symbolized in a rod 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.45.6|AUTODETECT|” [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.45.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 45:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.27|AUTODETECT|” ]; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.27|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.5|AUTODETECT|” 12:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.15|AUTODETECT|” 19:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.9|AUTODETECT|” [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ]). Christ uses that rod for the final overthrow of evil.��58��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.23|AUTODETECT|” b. [Shall I come to you] in love with a spirit of gentleness? If the choice were left to Paul, he would rather come as a loving father who speaks to repentant children. He would rather spare them than punish them, provided they repent 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.23|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If he rebukes them, he does so in love. As he has demonstrated in word and deed, his love for them is genuine (see v. 14). In harmony with the teaching of Christ, he would rather come to them with gentleness.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.5|AUTODETECT|” During his earthly ministry, Jesus taught his followers to foster a spirit of gentleness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.29|AUTODETECT|” 11:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ). During his triumphal entry he himself came in to Jerusalem, gently riding on a donkey 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.9|AUTODETECT|” ; see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.9|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.41-42.19.44|AUTODETECT|” ). But when he approached Jerusalem, he wept over it because the inhabitants failed to recognize that in Jesus Christ God was coming to them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.41-42.19.44|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:41 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.37-40.23.39|AUTODETECT|” ). Thus, Jesus spoke words of rebuke and lamentation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.23.37-40.23.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:37 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 20 2 8 0 0 Paul now is asking the Corinthians whether they want him to come and forgive them in love and gentleness or to chastise them in the event that they fail to repent. The choice is theirs.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 4:18 21) Verse 18) a� as if. This particle introduces a subjective thought of some Corinthians, namely, Paul is not coming. ) ���������� the aorist passive of ������ (I puff up) should be translated as a perfect tense in English: some have become arrogant. ) Verses 20 21) � the preposition, which occurs twice in verse 20, controls the dative cases of the nouns word and power. It is a descriptive dative.) � ����� the preposition with the noun in the dative case denotes accompaniment and should be taken with the verb ���. This verb in the aorist is a deliberative subjunctive: Am I to come to you? ) �� this particle is not a conjunction but rather an adjunction. It combines similar components.) Summary of Chapter 4) Paul teaches the Corinthians that he and fellow apostles are Christ s servants and stewards of God s mysteries.

God expects them to be faithful, for they are responsible to him and not to men. The Corinthians should not judge the labors of these apostles; instead they ought to wait for the Lord to pass judgment, for he will uncover what is hidden in the hearts of men and he will praise them.) Paul admonishes the Corinthians not to go beyond what is written and not to be arrogant toward one another. He tells them that all their possessions have been given to them, so that they cannot boast as if they always owned them. To bring the Corinthians to their senses, Paul uses irony by asking whether they are rich and are ruling like kings. Then he reveals how apostles live in the interest of Christ and his gospel. They are weak, yet strong; they are hungry and thirsty; they lack clothing and shelter; they perform manual labor for their own support.

They are abused physically and verbally, but show endurance and kindness.) The Corinthians are called Paul s dear children, for he is their spiritual father through the gospel. Paul urges them to follow his example, tells them that Timothy is sent to remind them of Paul s way of life, and says that he himself will come soon to Corinth. He concludes by asking them whether they wish to receive punishment or love and gentleness.) ) ) ) ) 1 See Bauer, p. 842; Thayer, pp. 641 42.) 2 J�rgen Goetzmann, NIDNTT, vol. 2, p. 255; J. D. M. Derrett, Law in the New Testament (London: Darton, Longman and Todd, 1970), pp. 48 77; J.

Reumann, Oikonomia Terms in Paul in Comparison with Lucan Heilsgeschichte, NTS 13 (1966 67): 147 67.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.1-46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 3 Jouette M. Bassler, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.1-46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 1 Corinthians 4:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Interp 44 (1990): 181.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.1|AUTODETECT|” 4 Of the twenty-eight occurrences in Greek, six are in the form of mysteries of God or mysteries of Christ : ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.4|AUTODETECT|” (variant reading); 4:1; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.3|AUTODETECT|” 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.10.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.10.7|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 10:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 5 G�nther Bornkamm, TDNT, vol. 4, pp. 820 21. See also G�nter Finkenrath, NIDNTT, vol. 3, p. 504; Donald Gunthrie, New Testament Theology (Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity, 1981), pp. 93 94.) 6 Bauer, p. 480.) 7 Some translations have the plural in the second part of the text: that they be found trustworthy (RSV, NRSV, TNT, Moffatt).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.14|AUTODETECT|” 8 Refer also to the Greek text of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.19|AUTODETECT|” 12:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 2 8 0 0 9 Bauer, p. 347.) 10 Lawrence L. Welborn, On the Discord in Corinth: 1 Corinthians 1 4 and Ancient Politics, JBL 106 (1987): 108.) 11 John Calvin, The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians, Calvin s Commentaries series, trans. John W. Fraser (reprint ed.; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1976), p. 86.) 12 John Albert Bengel, Bengel s New Testament Commentary, trans. Charlton T. Lewis and Marvin R. Vincent, 2 vols. (Grand Rapids: Kregel, 1981), vol. 2, p. 183.) 13 Bauer, p. 757.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.35.4|AUTODETECT|” 14 See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.35.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 35:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.10|AUTODETECT|” 40:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.62.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.62.11|AUTODETECT|” 62:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 12 2 8 0 0 NKJV New King James Version) 15 Bauer, p. 69.) 16 C. F. D. Moule, An Idiom-Book of New Testament Greek, 2d ed. (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1960), p. 161.) 17 Ibid., p. 144.) 18 See, e.g., 1:10, 11, 26; 2:1; 3:1.) NEB New English Bible) 19 Consult Morna D. Hooker, Beyond the Things Which Are Written : An Examination of 1 Cor. iv.6, NTS 10 (1963 64): 127 32.) 20 Refer to Andr� Legault, Beyond the Things Which Are Written (1 Cor. IV. 6), NTS 18 (1971 72): 227 31.) 21 Hooker, Beyond the Things Which Are Written, pp. 131 32.) NAB New American Bible) NIV New International Version) Cassirer A New Testament Translation, E. Cassirer) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.6|AUTODETECT|” 22 See, e.g., Hans Conzelmann, 1 Corinthians: A Commentary on the First Epistle to the Corinthians, ed. George W. MacRae, trans. James W. Leitch, Hermeneia: A Critical and Historical Commentary on the Bible (Philadelphia: Fortress, 1975), p. 86; Legault, Beyond the Things, p. 231. By contrast, refer to J. M. Ross, Not Above What Is Written: A Note on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.6|AUTODETECT|” 1 Corinthians 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , ExpT 82 (1970 71): 215 17.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.6|AUTODETECT|” 23 Lawrence L. Welborn, A Conciliatory Principle in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.6|AUTODETECT|” 1 Cor. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , NovT 19 (1987): 332; R. St. John Parry, The First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians, Cambridge Greek Testament for Schools and Colleges (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1937), pp. 78 79.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.19|AUTODETECT|” 24 The translation it is written (with variations), referring to the Scriptures, occurs in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.19|AUTODETECT|” 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.9|AUTODETECT|” 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.7|AUTODETECT|” 10:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.21|AUTODETECT|” 14:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.45|AUTODETECT|” 15:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.54|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.54|AUTODETECT|” 54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.13|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.15|AUTODETECT|” 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.9|AUTODETECT|” 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 10 2 8 0 0 25 Refer to F. W. Grosheide, Commentary on the First Epistle to the Corinthians: The English Text with Introduction, Exposition and Notes, New International Commentary on the New Testament series (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1953), p. 104.) 26 Conzelmann answers, Nothing, 1 Corinthians, p. 86. The translation of Cassirer also demands this reply, Why, what is it that singles you out among men? ) 27 Consult Calvin, I Corinthians, p. 91.) 28 Consult Conzelmann, 1 Corinthians, p. 87 n. 28.) KJV King James Version) 29 Friedrich Blass and Albert Debrunner, A Greek Grammar of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, trans. and rev. Robert Funk (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1961), #247.4.) 30 Translators provide a dynamic equivalent at this point: at the end of the procession (NIV), at the very end of the victory procession (TNT, italics in original), at the end of his parade (JB).) 31 Consult K. A.

Plank, Paul and the Irony of Affliction, SBL Semeia Studies (Atlanta: Scholars, 1987), pp. 44 54.) 32 Gordon D. Fee, The First Epistle to the Corinthians, New International Commentary on the New Testament series (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987), p. 176.) 33 Compare J�rgen Goetzmann, NIDNTT, vol. 2, p. 620.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.9-46.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 34 R. Hodgson, Paul the Apostle and First Century Tribulation Lists, ZNW 74 (1983): 59 80; William D. Spencer, The Power in Paul s Teaching 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.9-46.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 1 Cor. 4:9 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), JETS 32 (1989): 51 61.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 35 Bauer, p. 441.) 36 Albrecht Oepke, TDNT, vol. 1, p. 503.) 37 Compare Grosheide, First Epistle to the Corinthians, p. 109.) 38 Translations vary at this point: we entreat (KJV, NKJV), we try to conciliate (RSV; see NAB, Cassirer), we humbly make our appeal (NEB). Consult Bauer p. 617.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.13|AUTODETECT|” 39 Consult J. I. Packer, NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 479; Friedrich Hauck, TDNT, vol. 3, pp. 430 31; Gustav St�hlin, TDNT, vol. 6, pp. 90 91. A. Hanson, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.13|AUTODETECT|” 1 Corinthians 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.3.45|AUTODETECT|” b and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.3.45|AUTODETECT|” Lamentations 3:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , ExpT 39 (1982): 214 15.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 40 G. G. Findlay, St Paul s First Epistle to the Corinthians, in vol. 3 of The Expositor s Greek Testament, ed. W. Robertson Nicoll, 5 vols. (1910; reprint ed., Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1961), p. 803.) 41 A. T. Robertson, A Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research (Nashville: Broadman, 1934), p. 788.) 42 Johannes Behm, TDNT, vol. 4, p. 1022.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” 43 For the Greek verb nouthetein (to warn), which is a Pauline word, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 44 Refer to Norman H. Young, Paidagogos: The Social Setting of a Pauline Metaphor, NovT 29 (1987): 150 76.) 45 SB, vol. 3, pp. 340 41.) 46 Herman N. Ridderbos, Paul: An Outline of His Theology, trans. John Richard de Witt (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975), p. 450.) 47 D. M. Stanley, Become imitators of me : The Pauline Conception of Apostolic Tradition, Bib 40 (1959): 859 77; Wilhelm Michaelis, TDNT, vol. 4, p. 668.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.14-46.4.21|AUTODETECT|” 48 Willis P. De Boer, The Imitation of Paul: An Exegetical Study (Kampen: Kok, 1962), p. 153; Eva Maria Lassen, The Use of the Father Image in Imperial Propaganda and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.14-46.4.21|AUTODETECT|” 1 Corinthians 4:14 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , TynB 42.1 (1991): 127 36.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 49 K. Kohler, Abba, Father: Title of Spiritual Leader and Saint, JQR 13 (1900 1901): 567 80; D. A. Carson, Matthew, in vol. 8 of The Expositor s Bible Commentary, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, 12 vols. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1984), p. 475.) 50 Robert Hanna, A Grammatical Aid to the Greek New Testament (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1983), p. 291.) 51 Bauer, p. 529.) 52 Calvin, I Corinthians, p. 100.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” 53 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 14:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.9|AUTODETECT|” 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.24|AUTODETECT|” 15:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50|AUTODETECT|” 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.5|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.1|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 2 8 0 0 54 Guthrie, New Testament Theology, p. 429.) 55 R. C. H. Lenski, The Interpretation of St. Paul s First and Second Epistle to the Corinthians (1935; Columbus: Wartburg, 1946), p. 202.) 56 Carl Schneider, TDNT, vol. 6, p. 968.) 57 Robert W. Funk, Language, Hermeneutic, and Word of God: The Problem of Language in the New Testament and Contemporary Theology (New York, Evanston, and London: Harper and Row, 1966), p. 303.) 58 Margaret Embry, NIDNTT, vol. 1, pp. 163 64.) )