Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:1–2, 6–7

“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful… that none of you may be puffed up in favor of one against another. For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?”

Devotional Thought

Paul cuts through the noise of pride, division, and competition in Corinth with a striking reminder: leaders are not celebrities to be admired or platforms to be used for our own glory. They are servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Their task is not self-promotion but faithfulness.

The Corinthians’ problem wasn’t just that they elevated certain leaders. The deeper issue was that they used those leaders as leverage to elevate themselves. In boasting, “I follow Paul” or “I follow Apollos,” they were really saying, “I am greater because of who I’m attached to.” Paul demolishes that thinking: What do you have that you did not receive? Everything is grace. Everything is a gift.

Paul models the humility of a servant—poor, weak, despised in the eyes of the world—yet entrusted with the priceless treasure of the gospel. True Christian leadership is not about titles, power, or recognition. It’s about faithful stewardship, humility before God, and pointing all glory back to Christ.

When we remember that we are nothing apart from Him, pride dies and unity grows. Servants and stewards—that’s what we are.

Reflection Questions

1. Do I see myself—and others—in ministry primarily as servants of Christ, or do I crave recognition and status?

2. In what ways might I be tempted to boast in my gifts, leaders, or experiences instead of giving all glory to God?

3. How does Paul’s example of humility challenge the way I view leadership in the church?

4. What would it look like for me to live today as a faithful steward of God’s gifts?

Closing Prayer

Father, forgive me for the pride that so often creeps into my heart. I confess that I am quick to measure myself against others, to seek recognition, and to boast in what I have received as if it came from me. Teach me to see myself rightly—as a servant of Christ and a steward of Your grace. Make me faithful in the responsibilities You’ve entrusted to me, and keep me humble so that all the glory belongs to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.