4:10 {8} As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, {9} as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
(8) He shows the use of charity, that is, that every man bestow that gift which he hath received, to the profit of his neighbour.
(9) A reason, because that whatever gift we have, we have received it from God on this condition, to be his disposers and stewards.
4:10 As every man hath received the gift. Spiritual gifts are primarily meant, but the principle is of general application (1Co 12:4,28).
[Even so] minister the same one to another,. All these spiritual gifts are to be freely used for others.
As good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Those to whom God has given gifts must use them, not as their own, but as God's.
4:10 As every one hath received a gift - Spiritual or temporal, ordinary or extraordinary, although the latter seems primarily intended. So minister it one to another - Employ it for the common good. As good stewards of the manifold grace of God - The talents wherewith his free love has intrusted you.
4:7-11 The destruction of the Jewish church and nation, foretold by our Saviour, was very near. And the speedy approach of death and judgment concerns all, to which these words naturally lead our minds. Our approaching end, is a powerful argument to make us sober in all worldly matters, and earnest in religion. There are so many things amiss in all, that unless love covers, excuses, and forgives in others, the mistakes and faults for which every one needs the forbearance of others, Satan will prevail to stir up divisions and discords. But we are not to suppose that charity will cover or make amends for the sins of those who exercise it, so as to induce God to forgive them. The nature of a Christian's work, which is high work and hard work, the goodness of the Master, and the excellence of the reward, all require that our endeavours should be serious and earnest. And in all the duties and services of life, we should aim at the glory of God as our chief end. He is a miserable, unsettled wretch, who cleaves to himself, and forgets God; is only perplexed about his credit, and gain, and base ends, which are often broken, and which, when he attains, both he and they must shortly perish together. But he who has given up himself and his all to God, may say confidently that the Lord is his portion; and nothing but glory through Christ Jesus, is solid and lasting; that abideth for ever.
