1 Corinthians 3:5-9 - God Gives the Increase - Jan 17, 2025
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 (KJV)
"Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building."
Devotional Thought
Paul reminds the Corinthians that while ministers like himself and Apollos played a role in their spiritual growth, the ultimate growth comes from God. This passage calls us to humbly serve as co-laborers with God, trusting Him to bring the increase in His timing and for His glory.
Supporting Points
God is the source of all growth.
Human effort is necessary, but it is God who brings spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
"For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."
(Philippians 2:13, KJV)
Each servant has a unique role.
Paul planted, Apollos watered, but God coordinated their efforts for His purpose.
"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints."
(Ephesians 4:11-12, KJV)
We are co-laborers with God.
Every believer has a role in building God’s kingdom, and we are united in serving Him.
"The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest."
(Matthew 9:37-38, KJV)
Reflection Questions
Are you faithfully fulfilling your role as a co-laborer in God’s kingdom?
How can you trust God to bring spiritual growth where you have planted or watered?
How does knowing that God gives the increase encourage you in ministry?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for being the source of all growth and fruitfulness. Help me to faithfully fulfill the role You have given me, knowing that You will bring the increase. Teach me to serve humbly and trust Your timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.