1 Corinthians 3:7—“So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.”
The church at Corinth was troubled by divisions. Some claimed allegiance to Paul, while others preferred Apollos. Their attachment to particular teachers revealed spiritual immaturity. Paul corrects them by explaining the proper relationship between God’s servants and God Himself.
“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase” (v. 6). Paul had brought the Gospel to Corinth, and Apollos subsequently helped instruct the believers. Their ministries were complementary. Both served the same Lord, who alone made their labours spiritually fruitful.
When Paul says that neither worker is “any thing”, he does not declare faithful ministry worthless. Elsewhere in this passage, he affirms that each worker will receive his reward according to his labour (v. 8). His point is that neither preacher can impart spiritual life or produce growth independently of God.
“But God that giveth the increase” directs all glory to the Lord. Through His Word and Spirit, He brings sinners to faith and nourishes His people. Human servants are instruments; spiritual fruitfulness depends upon divine grace.
This truth humbles those who serve. Gifts, experience, and diligence provide no grounds for boasting. It also encourages discouraged workers. We must plant and water faithfully, entrusting the results to God.
Church members must guard against causing division. Receive faithful biblical teaching with gratitude, giving glory to God who works through His servants.
Let us therefore labour prayerfully, appreciate one another’s service, and give God the glory for every evidence of spiritual life and growth.
