Here are some lessons gathered from 1 Cor 4!

• The paradox of ministry:  a pastor is a slave (the most insignificant person). But he is a slave of Christ, whose work is to caretake the hidden treasures of God (which is the most significant work).
• It doesn’t matter what people think of you – whether they love you or hate you, praise you or criticize you, because as servant of God, he is the only one who can determine how good your work is – even you can’t!  So don’t set your heart on the approval of your teachers, employers or friends.  Seek God’s approval.  (v 3 – 5)
• Don’t compare yourselves with people around you and get a big head.  Any abilities you – or they – have were gifts from God.  Remember it’s not all you and be humble about it!  God had a reason he gifted you in the way he did and you can be sure it wasn’t for you to feel superior!  (v 7)
• Don’t envy, criticize or pedestal the ministry.  Ministers suffer scrutiny, mockery, criticism, want: of all people they are judged most harshly.  Instead of admiring or criticizing the minister, as far as you can see they are honouring God, take them as a role model.  Watch their godly lives and take it as a challenge to pursue God and godliness more yourself! (8 - 16)
• God’s kingdom isn’t established or composed of pious words, elegant prayers or dynamic sermons. It is a matter of Holy Spirit power.  If you want to be a true witness for God, don’t imagine you’ve done your job by sharing a few well chosen words.  Be all for God yourself, let the Holy Spirit lead you into empowered living.  Then you will show the world that there really is something to Christianity – that it’s not just talk! (v 18 - 20)