1. Being messengers of the Cross - 1Cor.4 1.The messenger & the message –v.1-7 a. They are servants of Jesus –v.1 b. They have been given a message –v.2 1. Don’t look for human applause –v.3-5 2. Don’t tamper with the message –v.6,7 cf. 1Cor.15:3,4 ; 2Tim.1:14

2. 2. The messenger & their life v.8-13 Paul describes his suffering as an apostle:- a.A slave going to his death – 2Cor.2:14 b.The aroma of a temple sacrifice We should not be surprised by this:- a.Jesus endured this – Is.53:2,3 b.Jesus told us to expect this – John15:18f c.It displays/authenticates our message cf. Gal.6:17

3. 3. The messenger & those who respond - v.14-21 a.Messenger is a model to follow –v.16 b.Messenger is ready to discipline –v.18- 21 cf. Gal.1:6-9

4. 4. Are we prepared to die? Jesus said his disciples are to die daily – Lk.9:23:- -To our own agenda –”Your will be done” -To pride -To a life of ease How do our lives display the Cross?