2 Things to Look for in a Spiritual Mentor/Leader (1 Corinthians 4:1)

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“Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.” (1 Corinthians 4:1, KJV)

In this verse, the Apostle Paul provides a framework for evaluating spiritual mentors and leaders, emphasizing two essential qualities. If someone observes or investigates our lives as spiritual leaders, these two aspects should be evident:

#1 – Are They Ministers of Christ?

Being a minister of Christ transcends the role of simply preaching or teaching. To minister means to serve and represent Christ in every aspect of life. It involves both receiving from Christ and dispensing what has been received. This dynamic is beautifully illustrated in Acts 3:6, where Peter and John encountered a lame man at the temple gate. Peter declares, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” Here, Peter acknowledges that he possesses something far greater than material wealth—he has been entrusted with the authority and power of Christ’s name.

A true spiritual mentor carries and dispenses the resources of Christ: His wisdom, grace, and spiritual gifts. They are like channels through which God’s blessings flow to others. Their lives are not about self-promotion but about showcasing Christ’s sufficiency. As Jesus said in John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

When assessing a spiritual leader, ask: Do they point others to Christ? Is their service marked by humility, dependence on God, and a consistent focus on glorifying Him? Ministers of Christ are not self-serving; they are devoted to meeting the spiritual needs of others through the riches of Christ.

#2 – Are They Stewards of the Mysteries of God?

The term stewards signifies responsibility and trustworthiness. A steward manages what belongs to someone else—in this case, the mysteries of God. Mysteries refer to divine truths and revelations that are not accessible to the natural mind but are unveiled through the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10). These secrets are not for personal gain but for the benefit of the body of Christ.

Consider Joseph in Genesis 41. God revealed the mystery of Pharaoh’s dreams to Joseph, but the revelation was not for Joseph’s exaltation—it was to save Egypt and surrounding nations from famine. Similarly, a spiritual mentor who is a steward of God’s mysteries is someone who has cultivated a deep relationship with God, allowing them to access insights, wisdom, and spiritual resources that edify others.

Paul highlights this principle in 2 Corinthians 4:7: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” The mysteries entrusted to a mentor reflect God’s covenant with them, and the evidence of that covenant is often the supernatural fruit of their ministry. For instance, someone may carry a healing anointing that blesses others but does not necessarily heal their infirmities, emphasizing that the gift is for the benefit of the community rather than the individual.

Such stewardship also demands accountability. As Paul states in 1 Corinthians 4:2, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” A true spiritual mentor demonstrates faithfulness to God’s Word, integrity in their calling, and a willingness to share the divine treasures entrusted to them for the spiritual growth of others.

In conclusion, a spiritual mentor or leader should exemplify these two qualities: being a minister of Christ and a steward of the mysteries of God. They should point others to Christ and His resources, serving with humility and love. They should also handle divine revelations with responsibility, using them to bless others and glorify God.

When you evaluate a potential mentor, reflect on whether they embody these characteristics. Are they living as servants of Christ and faithful stewards of God’s mysteries? If so, they are worth following, as they lead you closer to the heart of God.

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