1 Corinthians 3:8

ὁ φυτεύων δὲ καὶ ὁ ποτίζων ἕν εἰσιν. As though to make his depreciation of man as emphatic as possible, the Apostle uses the neuter gender here. The instruments are one thing, parts of a vast piece of machinery which God has put in motion for the salvation of the world. As channels of Divine grace it is our duty to forget their personality.

μισθὸν λήμψεται. The great truth contained in the first part of the verse is, however, capable of being misinterpreted. In reference to the work God’s ministers are but one. But in reference to their own individual action they are distinct. ‘Every man shall receive according as his work shall be.’ Else were God unjust.