Charles Ellicott Commentary 1 Corinthians 3:8

"Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: but each shall receive his own reward according to his own labor." — 1 Corinthians 3:8 (ASV)

Are one.—The planter and the waterer are one because they are both working in the same cause. But, says the Apostle (not “and,” as in our version), each man shall receive his own reward from God, not from man, according to his labour. There is an individuality as well as a unity in the work of the ministry. This, however, is not something to be noticed by people, but it will be recognized by the great Master.