1 Corinthians 4:1-2, Stewards of the Mysteries of God
1 Corinthians 4:1-2 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
Who is a Steward? He is a diligent and unprivileged server (v1a) caring for the Master’s Possessions (v1b). What qualifies a Steward? (v2)
- Only Be Faithful
The ministers of Christ, these “stewards of the mysteries of God” are men who help others know God – “the mysteries of God”. The word “steward” is or “oikonómos” in Greek is the other word picture. It is derived from the word “oikos”, “house” and “nemos”, “to administer, to deal out, distribute, apportion.” It literally refers to one put in charge of the administration of a household or estate. A steward, manager, administrator, a person who manages the domestic affairs of a family, business, or minor, a treasurer, a chamberlain of a city, a house manager.
A steward is entrusted great responsibilities in ancient times. The steward is held responsible for his master’s possessions and therefore he has to periodically give an account of his stewardship. He is a holder of a commission in the service of the Gospel (1 Corinthians 4:1; Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 4:10) [The New Analytical Greek Lexicon; W. J. Perschbacher] We observe the stewardship of Joseph as a servant of Pharaoh. He served with distinction his master to fulfill God’s purpose.
Indeed, it is a blessing to be a steward of the gospel. May God help His servants to know the Master’s will and do it well. Amen.