1 Corinthians 4:6-8
6 Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7 For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? 8 You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you!
6 Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us not to think beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7 For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? 8 You are already full! You are already rich! You have reigned as kings without us—and indeed I could wish you did reign, that we also might reign with you!
Since there is no boasting in God’s under shepherds like Paul and Apollos, then there can be no inflation of our own value above others either. We are no different or better than another, for we all received the same grace and mercy in Christ, and the gifts we each received are His, not our own accomplishments. We have all we need in Christ; we reign as kings in Him together, rich and complete in Him. Therefore we do not exalt pastors or teachers, but glory in Christ alone for His gifts and glory. There is no reason to desire another’s gifts or calling, but only contentment in our equal calling and value as being created in His image and called out for His purpose.
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