1 Corinthians 3:6
“I planted. Apollos watered. But God gave the increase.”
What does 1 Corinthians 3:6 mean?
Paul uses the image of farming to help the Corinthian church see their spiritual growth differently. He and Apollos were both teachers who did important work, yet neither of them could actually produce faith or transformation on their own. Only God has the power to make things truly grow, whether crops or souls. This matters especially if you're discouraged about your own spiritual journey or uncertain whether your efforts to help others are making any difference. The point is that showing up, doing your part, and trusting God with the results is exactly how things work. You're not responsible for forcing growth that only God can give, and that's actually a relief.