Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Corinthians 4:2

"Here, moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." — 1 Corinthians 4:2 (ASV)

Paul now examines the character of those who are handling God’s truth: they, including himself, must first of all show themselves faithful. Since he is the Lord’s servant and steward, it is to the Lord that he owes responsibility, and it is the Lord who “judges” (GK 373) him for the quality of his service. Human judgment has little value; even self-evaluation is unreliable. Christ is Lord of the conscience and the one who can evaluate it properly.