I Corinthians The Church, Then and Now

Welcome

Session 7 Stewardship & Authority

Chapter 4:1-21

4:1-6 The minister is a steward, faithfully responsible for the Master’s estate

4:7-13 The minister is characterized as a spectacle in humility

4:14-21 The minister is a father, tender towards his children

I CorinthiansThe Church, Then and Now

Session 7 – OutlineStewardship & Authority

Discussion Groups Process

• Answer Discussion Group questions in time period.

For this lesson: Questions 1 to 6.

• Use various Bible versions to clarify text.

• Note any points remaining unclear after group review.

• Confidentiality: personal comments acceptable, avoid private comments, maintain respect for group.

The Minister is a Steward

Minister: “under-rower”, slave rower on lowest level of Roman Trireme

The Minister is a Steward

Steward: chief slave, owns nothing, responsible for Master’s entire estate

The Minister as a Spectacle

Contrasts

Corinthians Apostles

Kings Prisoners

Wise men Fools

Strong Weak

Honorable Despised

Love’s Way

Treatment Response

Reviling Blessing

Persecution Endurance

Slander Conciliation

The Minister as a Father

• Paul founded the church family at Corinth.

• Paul was an example to the family.

• Paul disciplined the family.

Stewardship & Authority

4:1-6 The minister is a steward, faithfully responsible for the Master’s estate

4:7-13 The minister is characterized as a spectacle in humility

4:14-21 The minister is a father, tender towards his children

I CorinthiansThe Church, Then and Now

Session 7 – OutlineStewardship & Authority

I Corinthians The Church, Then and Now

Next Session:

Discipline Chapter 5, Verses 1 - 13