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1 Cor. 4:1 mysteries. Probably the gospel itself (see also Eph. 6:19) and other truths God has revealed. See, e.g., Rom. 11:25; 1 Cor. 15:51; Eph. 3:4, 6. A “mystery” in Paul’s letters is something that people cannot understand unless God reveals it to them (Dan. 2:18–19, 28; Eph. 1:7–9).
1 Cor. 4:3 judged by you. Some Corinthians, perhaps followers of Apollos or Cephas, probably criticized Paul, especially his lack of eloquence (1:17; 2:3–4; 4:18–21; 2 Cor. 10:9). They thought they could judge his spiritual effectiveness by his speaking ability.
1 Cor. 4:7 This set of rhetorical questions expresses the central theological truth the Corinthians seem to have forgotten: all their abilities, opportunities, and blessings are from God. They should not boast.
1 Cor. 4:8 you have become kings. Paul speaks ironically of the Corinthians’ pride.
1 Cor. 4:9 exhibited . . . like men sentenced to death. Paul probably refers to the Roman triumphal processions, in which captured enemy soldiers were paraded through the streets before being publicly executed. Or he may be thinking of gladiators condemned to die in an arena. See also 2 Cor. 2:14 and Col. 2:15.
1 Cor. 4:10–13 We are fools for Christ’s sake. Measured by the Corinthians’ “royal” standards (v. 8), Paul’s apostolic calling has involved foolishness, weakness, and suffering. See 2 Cor. 2:14–17; 4:7–12; 11:22–33; 12:9; Phil. 1:12–18.
1 Cor. 4:15 countless guides. Apollos and Cephas, among others. father. See v. 17; Gal. 4:19; 1 Thess. 2:7, 11; Philem. 10.
1 Cor. 4:19 I will find out . . . their power. Apparently Paul expected the Holy Spirit to discipline those harming the church (see Acts 5:1–11; 13:9–11; 2 Cor. 10:3–4).
1 Cor. 4:20 On the kingdom of God, see note on Matt. 3:2.
1 Cor. 4:21 rod. A thin stick used for discipline. Paul speaks metaphorically of the church discipline he describes in 5:3–5.
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