The Measure of a Minister

Pastor John Marc Wiemann
1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Main point: 1 Corinthians 4:1-5 gives four characteristics of a faithful servant in ministry and how you will be evaluated for your service when Christ returns.

I. Ministry Requires Humility
Verse 1

II. Ministry Requires Faithfulness
Verse 2

III. Ministry Requires Accountability
Verses 3-5a

Here are some books which may assist you in deeper study and application of the truths presented in today’s sermon. While the elders cannot endorse every concept presented in each book, we do believe these resources will be helpful in profitably thinking through today’s topic.

• Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer by Oswald Sanders
• The Cross and Christian Ministry by D.A. Carson
• Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges

Questions for Spiritual Growth

Our Cornerstone mission is To Know Christ and Make Him Known. Community Groups help us to live out our mission as we discuss the Scripture passage from the sermon, how to apply it, and pray for one another.

1. What is the meaning of “servant” in verse 1 and why is it critical to understand when serving in ministry?
   

2. How does the requirement of humility influence your everyday decisions and interactions?
   

3. How can someone in ministry prove to be faithful and trustworthy?
   

4. Is there a difference between being a successful minister and a faithful minister? Why or why not?
   

5. When should Christians “judge” others? When should they stop themselves from judging others?
   

6. Why does Paul object to the judgments of others and even his own judgments? Why is this important to remember?
   

7. What parts of God’s identity and character should increase your trust in Him to judge you and others correctly?
   

8. How does Paul’s view of Christ’s return in the future shape how he lives in the present?
   

9. Considering what you learned in 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, how does God want your beliefs and actions to change? What practical steps will you take?