FRIDAY, MAY 19
1 Corinthians 4:9-13
John 13:12-17

"We are fools
for Christ’s sake."

A MODEL OF SERVANTHOOD

The high-minded and conceited attitude of the Corinthian Christians stood in stark contrast to the lowly spirit of the Apostle Paul and his coworkers who had to endure much hardship and humiliation. Nevertheless, they endured all for the spiritual strengthening of the saints. It was as though Paul was made specially to be the central entertainment piece for the world to enjoy!

So how did Paul suffer as a model example of servanthood to Christ?

• "We are fools… ye are wise." The Apostle was often regarded as foolish not only by the world but also by some in the congregation of the church. Nevertheless, he endured such ridicule so that the saints might advance in spiritual wisdom.

• "We are weak… ye are strong." Paul was physically weak through the many bodily afflictions he suffered for Christ’s sake so that the Corinthian Christians might be spiritually strong.

• The Apostle often had to suffer thirst, hunger and nakedness.

• He had to endure much labour, sometimes toiling with his hands.

• He had to endure much persecution, and yet be magnanimous to bless those who persecuted him.

• He often had to endure much humiliation. He was regarded as filth (i.e. like the scum found on the floor of a dirty toilet) or the offscouring (i.e. the dirt that is washed off a person’s body) of the world. He had no honour wherever he went!

Dearly beloved, to be a servant of Christ calls for much self-denial. Are you ready to suffer for Christ as His servant?

THOUGHT: Am I ready to suffer?
PRAYER: Lord, it is my privilege to suffer for Thee.