Receiving Praise From God

          "It does not concern me in the least that I be judged by you or any human tribunal; I do not even pass judgment on myself; I am not conscious of anything against me, but I do not thereby stand acquitted; the one who judges me is the Lord. Therefore, do not make any judgment before the appointed time, until the Lord comes, for he will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts, and then everyone will receive praise from God." (1 Corinthians 4:3-5)

          The Apostle Paul focuses on stewardship in the church of God. From the viewpoint of oneself, we are not to evaluate in a non-spiritual fashion the quality of ministerial work. Themes of selflessness and humility are clearly being enforced here. All manner of teaching, preaching, and exhortation is to be done for the glory of God. We plant the seeds of conversion, but it is He who causes the growth. It is He that makes godly the ungodly. His praise and approval are what ultimately matters.

          The Apostle’s words also serve as a reminder that human perception is inherently limited. We are prone to error, partiality, and bias. Even our own self-assessments are flawed, for we do not see ourselves as God sees us. Paul’s refusal to pass judgment on himself is not an act of pride, but of spiritual sobriety. He entrusts his standing to the Lord, who alone discerns the heart with perfect clarity. This posture of surrender is what all ministers of the gospel must adopt—knowing that their labor is not in vain if it is done in faith and obedience.

          From a general standpoint, this text serves as a condemnation of passing hasty or harsh judgments regarding the faithfulness of those who preach the counsel of God. We do not know the thoughts and intentions of other people. Only God has that kind of knowledge. He reveals truth. On Judgment Day, every person will be rewarded according to his or her deeds. God looks at our works in judgment because they are descriptive of who we are as people.

          Furthermore, this passage reinforces the principle that divine judgment is both patient and precise. The Lord does not rush to condemn, nor does He overlook what is hidden. In His appointed time, He will expose every motive and intention, bringing to light what was once concealed. This should instill both reverence and hope in the believer. Reverence, because nothing escapes His notice; hope, because those who have labored in secret for His glory will be openly vindicated. The praise that comes from God is not based on outward success, but on inward faithfulness.