Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 3:5-9

"What then is Apollos? and what is Paul? Ministers through whom ye believed; and each as the Lord gave to him. I planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: but each shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God`s fellow-workers: ye are God`s husbandry, God`s building." — 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 (ASV)

The ministers about whom the Corinthians contended were only instruments used by God. We should not put ministers into the place of God.

He that planteth and he that watereth are one, employed by one Master, trusted with the same revelation, occupied in one work, and engaged in one design. They have their different gifts from one and the same Spirit, for the very same purposes; and should carry on the same design heartily.

Those who work hardest will fare best. Those who are most faithful will have the greatest reward.

They work together with God, in promoting the purposes of His glory and the salvation of precious souls. He who knows their work will take care that they do not labor in vain. They are employed in His husbandry and building; and He will carefully watch over them.