1 Corinthians 4:7-13

A caution against sinful pride 1 Corinthians 4:7-13: The faithless stewards were acting like they were the source of the good things they possessed. These faithless stewards were filled with destructive pride. In sarcasm Paul rebuked them saying, "Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God ye did reign, that we also might reign with you." (1 Corinthians 4:8)

In contrast with the pride and position of the faithless steward the faithful steward was made a "spectacle to the world." The godly steward was looked upon as a fool. (1 Corinthians 4:10) He was often physically weak. (1 Corinthians 4:10) He was despised by the world. (1 Corinthians 4:10) The faithful steward was hungry, thirsty and without proper clothing. (1 Corinthians 4:11) At times the faithful steward was treated harshly and was homeless. (1 Corinthians 4:11) These great stewards of God did backbreaking labor and even blessed their enemies. Through all of this they were looked upon as the world's garbage. (1 Corinthians 4:12-13) God had another view of them. He saw them as "Faithful Stewards."