What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 3:6? I planted the seed • Paul is speaking of his first evangelistic work in Corinth (Acts 18:1-11), when he “resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). • The seed is the gospel, echoing Jesus’ parable of the sower: “The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11). • This image underscores personal responsibility to share Christ: “How can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard?” (Romans 10:14). • Paul’s role was foundational, yet he warns against boasting: “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). Apollos watered it • After Paul left, Apollos—“a learned man, mighty in the Scriptures” (Acts 18:24-28)—arrived in Corinth and strengthened the believers (Acts 19:1). • “Watered” pictures ongoing teaching, encouragement, and discipleship (Ephesians 4:11-13). • Apollos’ ministry shows how God uses different servants at different stages; neither rivals nor competitors, they are “fellow workers” (1 Corinthians 3:9). • Paul later urges the church not to elevate leaders into factions: “I urged Apollos to go to you with the brothers” (1 Corinthians 16:12), highlighting cooperative service. but God made it grow • Though planting and watering matter, only God “gives the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:7). • Spiritual life originates with Him alone: “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” (John 6:44). • Growth—conversion and maturity—is God’s sovereign work (Philippians 1:6; Colossians 2:19). • This truth guards against pride, fosters unity, and anchors hope: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). summary • Paul sowed the gospel seed, Apollos nurtured it, but every sprout and harvest belongs to God. • Different servants, one mission; differing tasks, one outcome—Christ-centered growth. • Our calling is faithful planting and watering; our confidence rests in the Lord who alone brings life and fruitfulness. |
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