I Corinthians 4:14-21
Admonition on Obedience

Today, 04/28/2023, let us, together in the grace of God, rejoice and reflect on the Word of God in I Corinthians 4:14-21.

14 I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.

15 For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.

17 For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.

18 Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.

19 But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power.

20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

21 What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and in the spirit of meekness?

[King James Version]

Suggested Questions:

1. What is an instructor in Christ?

2. Does the role of “father” that Paul mentions in verse 15 differ from the role of “father” mentioned by the Lord Jesus in Matthew 23:9? If so, how is it different? If not, did Paul go against the teaching of the Lord?

3. Did Paul see Timothy as his own child?

4. What are Paul’s ways in Christ?

5. Were there still arrogant people in the Church in Corinth at that time?

6. Is obedience of the people of God in the Church demonstrated by their obedience to and emulation of the lives of those who lead them in the faith?

Suggested Applications:

1. Do you obey the pastors and elders in the church?

2. Do you emulate the faith and zeal for God’s work of those in leadership?

3. If you see a pastor or elder doing something that goes against the Bible, what will you do?