Summary - 1 Corinthians 4:14-21

Then and Now:
Curiously, Paul did not abandon the issue of boasting/pride quite yet. You'd think he would. Instead he decided to give the Corinthians one more prick alongside a little more hope. (Henry calls this remembering to respect and distinguish the sinner from the sin.) Paul flat out states his purpose is to admonish -not shame the readers. First, he has built on the foundation of Christ; his followers must become the same kind of master workman that he is. They need to be like Paul - who is like Christ. To help, he sent Timothy.

Paul considered the effect of that visit on those whose minds still honor worldly wisdom. They might think they had gained points (credibility, authority) since Paul himself was not coming. Not true. He had other committments. He wanted the Corinthians to see that real power comes through the authority of God. Real power results in changed lives, forgiven hearts, and new souls added to the kingdom. Then, once again, before closing the issue, Paul reverts to conciliation. He asks the Corinthians to use their wisdom by choosing which is better for teaching - a rod or a spirit of gentleness.

Now: Outside cultures change, but the psycological make-up and the sin nature of mankind never changes. Paul's teaching methods are just as useful today as then. What must always be considered are the values and needs of the individual hearers.

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Volume VI (Acts to Revelation) by Matthew Henry, online http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.v.html