1 Corinthians 3:6

I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.

     Paul had no qualms about his place in the work of the Lord. Sometimes when we look at Paul we think of him as a super-christian. He was so active for the Lord’s work, you almost get the idea that he single handedly started the church. Yet Paul has a much more accurate appraisal of Himself.  He knows that he is not the only one involved in the work. One of those people that were a big help in his work at Corinth was Apollos.

     Paul may have started the work, but he also knows that Apollos work was instrumental the church at well. By using the idea of watering, we get the impression that Apollos work was cementing the faith of the Christians that Paul had started. Yet it is not only that work that is important. Everyone has a role that they play in the faith. Paul recognizes the need for the help of others. He does not want credit or prestige as the only or even main worker. Instead he wants them to know that their work is of equal value.

     The biggest reason why neither person’s work is more important than the other is that in reality they are only servants. They play important parts in the work of the kingdom, but it is not the vital part. That goes to God. We need to remember that whatever work we do, it is all second to what God has done. We should not take the credit or look for the prestige in any of the things we do. Instead we need to realize that other people’s role are also important. However, the most important work is done by God. We need to give Him all the praise and the glory.

I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.