1 Corinthians 4:2
ESV
Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.
NIV
Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.
NASB
In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.
CSB
In this regard, it is required that managers be found faithful.
NLT
Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful.
KJV
Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
NKJV
Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.
What does 1 Corinthians 4:2 mean?
Paul has described himself and other ministers in the church as stewards of the mysteries of God. A "steward" is someone who manages something that does not belong to him. For instance, a wealthy man may give a trusted servant the job of managing his investments or the running of his household.Obviously, then, for one to be trusted as a steward, he or she must be considered faithful. That means they need to have a reputation as someone who tells the truth, does not steal, and lives with integrity. This seems obvious.
Paul is making the connection that he and the other Christian teachers must also be found faithful by God in order to serve as stewards of the revealed mysteries of God. They must be trustworthy people of high integrity. Paul will continue by suggesting, however, that the ultimate measure of his trustworthiness comes from God, not from other people. While it's important that Christian leaders have a good reputation (1 Timothy 3:7), their real responsibility is to the Lord.
