1 Corinthians 4

"God's wisdom" continues to play a central role in Paul's thinking. This time, we are reminded not to judge anything before it is time. God is in control (he knows all things) and it is Jesus who, when he returns, will bring to light what is hidden. Always remember: God knows what is happening, and Jesus has earned the right through the cross to judge all people. As a good friend of mine likes to say, "It is not our job to judge. It is our job to love." Can we also say this: "Until we learn how to die for others like Jesus did, then we have no right to judge them"?

Notice how Paul indicates his leadership (or "fathership") among the Corinthians. He has sacrificed for them over and over again. Since he has learned to lay his life down for them, and has lived the Gospel among them, now he asserts the right to lead them. Because of his self-sacrifice, he has earned the right to say "Imitate me." Then he further asserts his authority be warning them that he will soon come as an angry father, ready to discipline. It is this sacrificial lifestyle that gives Paul the right to exercise authority in the Corinthian church.

This is important for all church leaders, and perhaps all leaders in general. Many want to lead and discipline in the name of the Lord without first living Christ's sacrifice before their people. Paul clealry states that we have no right to judge. Only Jesus can judge because of his sacrifice. Then Paul asserts his authority based on his imitation of Christ through sacrificial living for the sake of the Gospel. Thus, Paul traces his authority to judge and discipline back to the sacrifice of Christ, which he himself is living out for the Corinthian church.

The rest of the prophetic instruction to the church in 1 Corinthians finds its authority in the wisdom of God and the sacrifice of Christ, as seen in the preaching and suffering of Paul. So, imitate that, if you dare.