“But to me it is a very small thing that I may be examined by you, or by any human court; in fact, I do not even examine myself. For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted; but the one who examines me is the Lord. Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God.”

Paul knew his own heart, his own motives, so he didn’t need to worry about convincing his readers (the Corinthians). Indeed the Corinthians did question his intentions, and at times he defended himself against their criticisms (e.g. 2 Cor. 10:7-18). But that was not out of personal insecurity or need for acceptance, but to undercut the Corinthians’ attitudes. Those today in prominent positions among God’s people need to be confident in their calling to service, not subject to the fickle judgmentalism of others. They should not be constantly second-guessing their appointment because of self-doubts but resting in the recognition that they serve at God’s pleasure and by His calling.

Those who have served in leadership roles understand this temptation and constant struggle. We all have an innate human propensity to pride that seeps out when given a platform to stand on. Paul was no exception. And yet its dark companion, self-doubt, constantly lurks in the lonely shadows. Paul’s confident, bold assertions reflect a man who knew these truths well and had worked hard to overcome them. Romans 7 serves as a reminder to us of his struggles.

Yet despite his present assertion of a clear conscience, the final word is with the Lord. When he considers the Lord as his witness, he has no fears. Leaders must be certain of their calling or they will wither under the frequent misunderstandings, unfair judgments, and harsh criticisms.

Not wanting this to be about himself, Paul extends his comments to all Christians, to withhold judgments about those who teach us. One wonders whether the followers of Paul criticized the character of Peter and Apollos. Or those of Peter judged the motives of Apollos or Paul. God will be perfectly capable, writes Paul, of determining these things; the intentions of the heart will eventually come to light before the Judge of all the earth, God Himself. While we must judge a teacher’s content against Scripture, we must be careful of judging a teacher’s motivation.

Therefore, leaders and teachers, and all who would live for God, must not serve for human acceptance and praise, but for God’s praise alone.

Lord, I want only to hear You say to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”