1 Corinthians 4:2
Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
Study Note
Study Note
'Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful' — the steward (oikonomos) metaphor presents apostolic ministry as management of another's property rather than ownership, fundamentally reframing success away from popularity or rhetorical power toward faithfulness to the entrusted message. Paul's application in verses 3–5 is radical: human or even self-assessment is insufficient — 'He that judgeth me is the Lord' — and final vindication awaits the eschatological revelation. The principle extends beyond apostleship to all forms of Christian vocation: the standard of faithfulness subordinates visible results to alignment with the master's will, drawing on the Parable of the Talents tradition (Matthew 25:21).
Other Translations
Here, moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
and as to the rest, it is required in the stewards that one may be found faithful,
And it is right for such servants to be safe persons.
Cross References
His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, …
His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I …
For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who …
Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained …
And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his …
He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in …
And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is …
As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;
All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in …
And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.