John Calvin Commentary 1 Corinthians 4:2

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

But it is required in ministers: It is as if he had said, it is not enough to be a steward if there is not upright stewardship. Now, the rule of upright stewardship is to conduct oneself in it with fidelity. This is a passage that ought to be carefully observed, for we see how haughtily Papists require that everything they do and teach should have the authority of law, simply on the ground of their being called pastors.

On the other hand, Paul is so far from being satisfied with the mere title that, in his view, it is not even enough that there is a legitimate call, unless the person who is called conducts himself in the office with fidelity. On every occasion, therefore, when Papists hold up before us the mask of a name to maintain the tyranny of their idol, let our answer be that Paul requires more than this from the ministers of Christ; though, at the same time, the Pope and his attendant train are lacking not merely in fidelity in the discharge of the office, but also in the ministry itself, if everything is duly considered.

This passage, however, militates not merely against wicked teachers, but also against all who have any other object in view than the glory of Christ and the edification of the Church. For everyone who teaches the truth is not necessarily faithful, but only he who desires from the heart to serve the Lord and advance Christ’s kingdom.

Nor is it without good reason that Augustine assigns to hirelings (John 10:12) a middle place between the wolves and the good teachers.

Regarding Christ’s requiring wisdom also on the part of the good steward (Luke 12:42), he speaks, it is true, in that passage with greater clarity than Paul, but the meaning is the same.

For the faithfulness of which Christ speaks is uprightness of conscience, which must be accompanied by sound and prudent counsel. By a faithful minister, Paul means one who, with knowledge as well as uprightness, discharges the office of a good and faithful minister.