Even if you had ten thousand tutors in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel — the distinction between 'tutors' (paidagōgos, slave-escorts for wealthy boys) and 'fathers' (patēr) is crucial. Tutors abound; fathers are unique. Paul's paternal authority derives from his role in the Corinthians' spiritual birth (through the gospel he preached). They cannot transfer allegiance to Apollos and remain Paul's children; the paternal bond is singular.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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