1 Corinthians 4:1

Authorized King James Version

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Οὕτως

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

ἡμᾶς

G2248

of us

λογιζέσθω

G3049

Let

to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively)

ἄνθρωπος

G444

a man

man-faced, i.e., a human being

ὡς

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ὑπηρέτας

G5257

of the ministers

an under-oarsman, i.e., (generally) subordinate (assistant, sexton, constable)

Χριστοῦ

G5547

of Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οἰκονόμους

G3623

stewards

a house-distributor (i.e., manager), or overseer, i.e., an employee in that capacity; by extension, a fiscal agent (treasurer); figuratively, a preach

#10

μυστηρίων

G3466

of the mysteries

a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites)

#11

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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