1 Corinthians 3:5-15
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
The Corinthians were fixated on human wisdom and their favorite teachers—Paul and Apollos. According to 1 Corinthians 3:5-9, how does Paul redirect their attention? What does he want them to understand about Christian leaders, and why is that perspective so important?
Paul describes himself and Apollos as servants (v. 5), workers employed by God (v. 9), and men who are nothing compared to the God who gives the growth (v. 7). And he describes the church as God's field and God's building (v. 9). What do these images teach us about Christian leaders, the church, and our place within God's work?
Paul says, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth" (vv. 6 and 7). Why does Paul repeat God's role in producing the growth? How does this challenge our tendency to admire personalities, measure success by human ability, or trust in ourselves?
Paul says he laid the foundation "according to the grace of God given to me" (v. 10). What does this teach us about the source of our ministry? Why is it important to remember that we not only are saved by grace, but also serve and build the church by grace? What dangers arise when we forget this?
Paul warns, "Let each one take care how he builds” on the foundation of Jesus (v. 10). He then contrasts building with gold, silver, and precious stones OR with wood, hay, and straw. What would ministry focused on imperishable materials look like today? What would ministry focused on perishable materials look like today?
Paul is not describing the loss of salvation in verses 12-15, since the builder who suffers loss "will be saved." Instead, he is describing God’s future evaluation of a believer's ministry. How does this change your understanding of these verses? Why is it freeing to remember that God—not popularity, numbers, or human opinion—is the one who ultimately evaluates our work (cf. 1 Cor 4:3-5)?
How does this passage redefine what successful ministry looks like? How does God's definition differ from the way our culture—or even the church—often measures success?
If we are all fellow workers building God’s church on the foundation of Jesus, how and where is God using you to contribute to the growth of others in your church? What is the central focus of your ministry, discipleship, or encouragement (cf. Col 1:28)?
