In 1 Corinthians 4:14-21, the apostle Paul used a term of endearment to refer to his relationship with the Corinthians. In the first 3 chapters of the epistle, Paul had described himself, in particular, and all spiritual leaders in general, as a servant/table-waiter (3:5), a farmer (3:6), a builder (3:10), a servant/galley slave (4:1), and a steward (4:1). Now, in vv. 14-21, Paul adds the title of "father" to the list. And like a natural parent with a natural child, Paul (and all those who raise and disciple others) lovingly admonished, parentally tutored, and lovingly disciplined his spiritual progeny.