(21 verses, 2:50 to read)
What I am about to READ
- Paul sets forth the proper understanding of the nature and purpose of the stewards of the mysteries of God.
MARK
- Paul shows the relationship between stewards of the mysteries and God. (1-7)
- Paul shows how Christ, His ministers, and the Word are received in the world. (8-13)
- Paul admonishes the Corinthians to be imitators of him as he is in Christ. (14-21)
LEARN
The chief work of the stewards of the mysteries of God is to be faithful with what the Lord has given them to do regardless of the consequences in the world. This the Lord cares about and this those who receive from the Lord through the stewards ought concern themselves with as well. With this in mind, all who receive are to pray to receive all things in meekness and humility and boast in this and this alone. Likewise, the stewards are to be as concerned as faithful, loving fathers are to their dear children.
MEDITATE
One is immediately reminded of perhaps one of the most neglected sections of Luther’s Small Catechism: the Table of Duties. Following are the sections for stewards and hearers:
For Bishops, Pastors, and Preachers.
A bishop must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; one that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; not a novice; holding fast the faithful Word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. 1 Tim. 3:2ff ; Titus 1:6.
What the Hearers Owe to Their Pastors.
Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel. 1 Cor. 9:14. Let him that is taught in the Word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Gal. 6:6. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the Word and doctrine. For the Scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn; and the laborer is worthy of his reward. 1 Tim. 5:17-18. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves; for they watch for your souls as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy and not with grief; for that is unprofitable for you. Heb. 13:17.]
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-Pastor Weslie Odom
Rightly Divided 