Here we explain some important terms in the text as Paul contrasts the “day of man” with the future day where the Lord will judge his stewards. The “human court” is a false judgment made by men of the relative value of various ministers. Paul does not even evaluate himself in that manner. Yet the Corinthians were making false judgments about things that cannot be known. Paul uses an imperative to exhort them, “stop making false judgments.” The future day when the Lord judges will be based on things which we cannot know—the thoughts and motives of the heart. Only God knows the heart. In application we point out the danger of the fear of man. Those who serve Christ must not allow the popular views of their religious peers to keep them from serving Christ on His terms.