Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Corinthians 3:5

"What then is Apollos? and what is Paul? Ministers through whom ye believed; and each as the Lord gave to him." — 1 Corinthians 3:5 (ASV)

The Apostle now proceeds to explain (1 Corinthians 3:5–9) the true position and work of Christian ministers. He asserts that all alike—both those who teach the simpler truths and those who build upon that primary knowledge—are only instruments in God’s hand.

Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 3:10–15 (replying to those who sneered at and despised his simple teaching as compared to the higher instruction of Apollos), he points out that although all are only instruments used by God, yet if there is any difference of honor or utility in the various kinds of work for which God so uses His ministers, the greater work is planting the seed or laying the foundation. There can be only one foundation—it is both necessary and unvarying—and many others may build upon it with varied material and different results.

Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos?—Better, What then is Apollos? What is Paul? And to these abrupt and startling questions, the answer is, “Merely those whom Christ used, as He gave to each his own specific powers as the means of your conversion.” (This is the force of the word “believed” here, as in Romans 13:11). It is therefore absurd that you exalt them as heads of parties. They are only instruments—each used as the great Master thought best.