1 Corinthians 4:6

And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.

1 Corinthians 4:6 (KJV)

Context

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthian church to address various issues and challenges they were facing. In this particular verse, Paul is addressing the problem of divisions and the undue exaltation of human leaders within the church.

Corinth was a cosmopolitan city known for its diverse population and cultural influences. The church in Corinth struggled with divisions and conflicts, often aligning themselves with different leaders. Apollos was a prominent preacher and teacher who had ministered in Corinth, and there were factions among the Corinthians who claimed allegiance to either Paul or Apollos.

Meaning

Paul uses a figure of speech to illustrate a principle by transferring the situation to himself and Apollos. The Greek word translated “in a figure transferred” means to change the form or application of something. Paul had been speaking about the Corinthians’ partisan loyalties, but he applies the correction to himself and Apollos rather than naming the actual party leaders. By using himself and Apollos as examples, he made the rebuke more acceptable and avoided directly attacking any specific leader or person.

Paul instructs the Corinthians not to think of men, including himself and Apollos, beyond what is written. “What is written” refers to the teachings of Scripture, specifically the Word of God. The Corinthians were placing too much emphasis on human leaders, elevating them above their rightful place and creating divisions. Paul’s point is that believers should not elevate any teacher beyond what Scripture warrants.

Paul warns against being “puffed up” or arrogant, as it leads to divisions and conflicts within the church. When believers exalt one leader over another, it can create a sense of superiority and breed contention. Pride and arrogance lead to factionalism, as believers exalt one teacher over another. Instead, Paul encourages unity and mutual respect among believers, recognizing that they all belong to Christ.

Biblical connections

The immediate context shows that ministers are merely servants through whom God works, and all things belong to the believers. The next verse makes clear that every gift comes from God: “For who maketh thee to differ? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive?” This reinforces the call to humility and the recognition that all gifts come from God.

Application

The principle of not exalting human leaders beyond what is written applies to us today. It is important to focus on the teachings of Scripture rather than elevating any individual or personality within the church. Unity among believers is crucial, and our allegiance should ultimately be to Christ alone. We should guard against any attitudes of superiority, pride, or divisiveness that can arise from favoring one leader or group over another.

Reflection

1 Corinthians 4:6 reminds us of the importance of humility, unity, and a Christ-centered perspective within the church. It encourages us to prioritise the teachings of Scripture above the exaltation of human leaders, fostering a spirit of love, cooperation, and mutual respect among believers.