Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 4:1-6

"Let a man so account of us, as of ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Here, moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man`s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing against myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. Wherefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the hearts; and then shall each man have his praise from God. Now these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes; that in us ye might learn not [to go] beyond the things which are written; that no one of you be puffed up for the one against the other." — 1 Corinthians 4:1-6 (ASV)

Apostles were no more than servants of Christ, but they were not to be undervalued. They had a great trust and, for that reason, had an honourable office. Paul had a just concern for his own reputation, but he knew that he who chiefly aimed to please people would not prove himself a faithful servant of Christ. It is a comfort that human beings are not to be our final judges.

And it is not judging ourselves well, or justifying ourselves, that will prove us safe and happy. Our own judgment is not to be depended upon regarding our faithfulness, any more than our own works for our justification. A day is coming that will bring people's secret sins to light and discover the secrets of their hearts.

Then every slandered believer will be justified, and every faithful servant approved and rewarded. The word of God is the best rule by which to judge people. Pride is commonly at the bottom of quarrels. Self-conceit contributes to an undue esteem for our teachers, as well as for ourselves.

We will not be puffed up for one against another if we remember that all are instruments, employed by God, and endowed by him with various talents.