1 Corinthians 3:8

He who plants and he who waters are one in purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.

Study Bible

He who plants
The imagery of planting is deeply rooted in the agrarian culture of the ancient Near East. The Greek word used here is "φυτεύων" (phyteuōn), which means to plant or set in the ground. This metaphor reflects the initial work of spreading the Gospel, akin to sowing seeds. In the context of the early church, this represents the foundational work of apostles and evangelists who introduce the message of Christ to new believers. Historically, planting was a labor-intensive task, requiring patience and faith that the seeds would grow, much like the spiritual work of introducing the Gospel.

and he who waters
The Greek word "ποτίζων" (potizōn) means to give drink or to water. This represents the nurturing and teaching that follows the initial planting. In the early church, this role was often fulfilled by pastors and teachers who helped new believers grow in their faith. Watering is essential for growth, symbolizing the ongoing discipleship and care needed to mature in Christ. The historical context of Corinth, a city known for its commerce and diversity, required diligent teaching to ensure the church remained rooted in sound doctrine amidst various cultural influences.

are one in purpose
The phrase "ἕν εἰσιν" (hen eisin) translates to "are one," emphasizing unity. Despite different roles, those who plant and water share a common goal: the growth and flourishing of the church. This unity reflects the body of Christ, where diverse gifts and functions work together harmoniously. The early church faced divisions, as seen in Corinth, where believers aligned themselves with different leaders. Paul’s message here is a call to unity, reminding the church that all laborers are working towards the same divine purpose.

and each will be rewarded
The Greek word "μισθὸν" (misthon) means wages or reward. This indicates that God recognizes and values the individual contributions of each worker. The reward is not based on the role but on the faithfulness and diligence of the laborer. In a historical context, this would have been a comforting assurance to early Christians who faced persecution and hardship, knowing that their efforts were not in vain but would be honored by God.

according to his own labor
The word "κόπον" (kopon) refers to labor or toil, emphasizing the effort and dedication involved in ministry. This phrase underscores personal responsibility and the unique contribution each believer makes to the kingdom of God. In the scriptural context, it highlights that while salvation is a gift, the rewards in God’s kingdom are linked to the faithful service and stewardship of one’s calling. This serves as an encouragement to believers to diligently pursue their God-given tasks, trusting that their labor is meaningful and will be rewarded by the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth, emphasizing unity and purpose in ministry.

2. Apollos
A fellow worker in the ministry, known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Scriptures, mentioned earlier in 1 Corinthians 3 as one who waters what Paul has planted.

3. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diversity and moral challenges, where the early church faced divisions and needed guidance on unity.

4. The Church in Corinth
The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with divisions and needing instruction on spiritual maturity and unity.

5. God
The ultimate source of growth and reward, who gives the increase in the work of ministry.

Teaching Points

Unity in Purpose
Believers are called to work together with a common goal, recognizing that each role is vital in God's kingdom.

Individual Responsibility
Each person is accountable for their own labor and will be rewarded accordingly. This encourages diligence and faithfulness in one's calling.

God's Sovereignty in Growth
While believers plant and water, it is God who gives the increase. Trust in His timing and provision is essential.

Avoiding Division
The church should avoid divisions based on who does what work, focusing instead on the shared mission and purpose in Christ.

Eternal Perspective
Rewards are not just earthly but eternal. Keeping an eternal perspective helps believers remain steadfast in their labor.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the unity of purpose among believers help address divisions within the church today?

2. In what ways can you personally contribute to the planting and watering in your local church or community?

3. Reflect on a time when you saw God give the increase in a situation where you planted or watered. How did this experience strengthen your faith?

4. How can the principle of being rewarded according to one's labor motivate you in your current ministry or service?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that your focus remains on God's sovereignty and not on human recognition in your work for the kingdom?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Corinthians 12
Discusses the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ and emphasizes unity and interdependence among believers.

Galatians 6:9
Encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good, for in due season they will reap a harvest if they do not give up.

Matthew 25:14-30
The Parable of the Talents, illustrating the principle of being rewarded according to one's labor and faithfulness.

Ephesians 4:11-16
Highlights the different roles within the church and the importance of working together to build up the body of Christ.

John 15:5
Jesus speaks of being the vine and believers as branches, emphasizing that apart from Him, they can do nothing, pointing to God as the source of growth.