Are you an infant in Christ?

In 1 Corinthians 3-4, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of spiritual immaturity and divisions within the Corinthian church. He begins by describing the believers as “infants in Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:1, NLT), explaining that their jealousy and quarrelling over allegiance to different leaders reveal their lack of spiritual growth. Paul emphasizes that leaders like himself and Apollos are merely servants through whom God works, stating,

“It’s not important who does the planting or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:7 (NLT)

Paul then uses the metaphor of the church as God’s building, with Christ as the foundation. He cautions believers to build carefully on this foundation, using materials that will withstand God’s judgment:

“But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done.” 1 Corinthians 3:13 (NLT)

This illustrates the need for believers to live wisely, focusing on eternal, not worldly, values.

In chapter 4, Paul shifts the focus to the role of Christian leaders. He advises the Corinthians not to judge their leaders based on human standards but to leave judgment to God:

“He will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives.” 1 Corinthians 4:5 (NLT)

Paul also warns against pride and boasting about leaders, reminding the Corinthians that everything they have is a gift from God:

“What do you have that God hasn’t given you?” 1 Corinthians 4:7 (NLT)

Through this, Paul encourages humility and unity, urging believers to look to Christ as the ultimate example of leadership and servanthood.