Three exams

"Do not judge before the time, until the Lord comes, he who will bring to light what is hidden in darkness, and will manifest the intentions of hearts; and then, for each one, approval will come from God." 1 Corinthians 4: 5

The apostle Paul asks the believers in Corinth not to make hasty judgments about his ministry, or that of Peter or Apollos. They are only servants of Christ, charged with administering "the mysteries of God," that is, what was once hidden, but now revealed to the apostles.

In antiquity the administrator of a good was usually a slave whom his master established over other slaves to direct their labor and distribute food to them. Fully dependent on his master, he had no personal interest in his affairs, but he was responsible for their management. Such is the position taken by the apostle in the administration of the mysteries of God : those to whom he communicates them will have to deal with their Master and not with him, more reason for them to listen attentively. And what does the Master ask the Administrator who takes care of his possessions ? It is to be faithful ! But this fidelity is difficult to estimate by a third party. In particular, no one is able to make an informed and fair statement about someone's fidelity to God. Only the Lord judges. Paul makes the triple demonstration :

1. The examination of men : It was of little importance to Paul to be judged, examined, and evaluated by others. He himself did not question himself (1 Corinthians 4: 3). It is impossible for us to properly evaluate our own action, for we are inclined to tip the balance in our favor !

2. The examination of consciousness : God has given us a consciousness. It is like the red signal that lights up in a car when the engine heats up too much or it runs out of oil. Paul knows that his conscience does not blame him, but his service is not justified (1 Corinthians 4: 4). Only the judgment of the Lord is infallible.

3. The examination of the Lord : Paul now comes to the only examination that is important : that of the Lord. When he comes, he alone will be able to judge the secret motives of the actions and reveal their shadow areas. The only approval that counts will then come from God who will give or not the rewards !

Careful then, in our appreciation of the service of a Christian !

Source (To pleasing the Lord)