1 Corinthians 3:4

For when one of you says, "I follow Paul," and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not mere men?

Study Bible

For when one of you says
This phrase introduces a scenario that Paul is addressing within the Corinthian church. The Greek word for "says" (λέγει) implies a continuous or habitual action, suggesting that this was an ongoing issue among the Corinthians. The use of "one of you" indicates that this was not an isolated incident but a common problem within the community. Historically, the Corinthian church was known for its divisions and factions, which Paul seeks to correct by pointing out the immaturity in their thinking.

'I follow Paul,'
The phrase "I follow" (ἐγώ εἰμι) in Greek literally means "I am of," indicating a sense of belonging or allegiance. Paul, as the founder of the Corinthian church, naturally had followers who were loyal to him. However, Paul is emphasizing that such allegiance to human leaders is misplaced. In the broader scriptural context, Paul consistently points to Christ as the head of the church, urging believers to find their identity in Him rather than in human leaders.

and another, 'I follow Apollos,'
Apollos was an eloquent speaker and a learned man, as described in Acts 18:24-28. His ministry in Corinth was significant, and he attracted a following due to his powerful teaching. The Greek construction here is parallel to the previous phrase, reinforcing the idea of division based on personal preference for leaders. This reflects a historical context where rhetoric and oratory skills were highly valued in Greek culture, leading some to favor Apollos over Paul.

are you not mere men?
The rhetorical question posed by Paul challenges the Corinthians to reflect on their spiritual maturity. The term "mere men" (σαρκικοί) suggests a worldly or fleshly mindset, contrasting with the spiritual maturity expected of believers. In the broader biblical context, Paul often contrasts the flesh with the spirit, urging believers to live according to the Spirit. This phrase serves as a call to rise above human divisions and to seek unity in Christ, who transcends all human leaders and factions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
An apostle of Jesus Christ, who played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in the first century. He founded the church in Corinth and wrote letters to address issues within the church.

2. Apollos
A Jewish Christian from Alexandria, known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Scriptures. He was a prominent teacher in the early church and ministered in Corinth after Paul.

3. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality. The church in Corinth faced many challenges, including divisions and immorality, which Paul addresses in his letters.

4. Divisions in the Church
The Corinthian church was experiencing divisions, with members aligning themselves with different leaders, such as Paul and Apollos, rather than uniting under Christ.

5. The Early Church
The first-century Christian community, which faced various challenges, including maintaining unity amidst diverse backgrounds and teachings.

Teaching Points

Unity in Christ
Believers are called to unity in Christ, not division based on human leaders. Our allegiance should be to Christ alone, who is the head of the church.

Avoiding Factionalism
Factionalism and aligning with specific leaders can lead to division and weaken the church's witness. We must focus on the message of the Gospel rather than the messenger.

Spiritual Maturity
Spiritual maturity involves recognizing that all leaders are servants of Christ, and our ultimate loyalty is to Him. We should grow in our understanding and application of this truth.

The Role of Leaders
Church leaders are important, but they are not the foundation of our faith. They are instruments used by God to build His church, and we should respect and learn from them without idolizing them.

Christ-Centered Identity
Our identity as Christians is rooted in Christ, not in human leaders or affiliations. We should strive to reflect Christ in our interactions and relationships within the church.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern examples of divisions within the church that mirror the situation in Corinth, and how can we address them?

2. How can we ensure that our allegiance remains with Christ rather than becoming overly attached to specific church leaders or denominations?

3. In what ways can we promote unity within our local church community, especially when disagreements arise?

4. How does understanding the role of church leaders as servants of Christ impact our view of leadership and authority in the church?

5. Reflect on your own spiritual maturity. How can you grow in recognizing and overcoming any tendencies toward factionalism or division in your faith community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 1:12-13
Paul addresses the issue of divisions in the church, emphasizing that Christ is not divided and that believers should not align themselves with human leaders over Christ.

Acts 18:24-28
Describes Apollos' ministry and his role in the early church, highlighting his eloquence and fervor in teaching about Jesus.

Ephesians 4:3-6
Paul urges believers to maintain unity in the Spirit, emphasizing one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God.