1 Corinthians 16
1 Corinthians 16 is the part where Paul brings his letter to a close, leaving the church with practical counsel and greetings. It consists of instructions regarding the collection, plans for visits by fellow workers, and finally, concluding greetings and a blessing.
1verseNow concerning the collection for the saints: as I commanded the assemblies of Galatia, you do likewise.
2verseOn the first day of every week, let each one of you save as he may prosper, that no collections are made when I come.
3verseWhen I arrive, I will send whoever you approve with letters to carry your gracious gift to Jerusalem.
4verseIf it is appropriate for me to go also, they will go with me.
5verseI will come to you when I have passed through Macedonia, for I am passing through Macedonia.
6verseBut with you it may be that I will stay with you, or even winter with you, that you may send me on my journey wherever I go.
7verseFor I do not wish to see you now in passing, but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits.
8verseBut I will stay at Ephesus until Pentecost,
9versefor a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.
10verseNow if Timothy comes, see that he is with you without fear, for he does the work of the Lord, as I also do.
11verseTherefore let no one despise him. But set him forward on his journey in peace, that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brothers.
12verseNow concerning Apollos the brother, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brothers, but it was not at all his desire to come now; but he will come when he has an opportunity.
13verseWatch! Stand firm in the faith! Be courageous! Be strong!
14verseLet all that you do be done in love.
15verseNow I beg you, brothers—you know the house of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have set themselves to serve the saints—
16versethat you also be in subjection to such, and to everyone who helps in the work and labors.
17verseI rejoice at the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus; for that which was lacking on your part, they supplied.
18verseFor they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge those who are like that.
19verseThe assemblies of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, together with the assembly that is in their house.
20verseAll the brothers greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
21verseThis greeting is by me, Paul, with my own hand.
22verseIf any man doesn’t love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be cursed. Come, Lord!
23verseThe grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
24verseMy love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Instructions for the Relief Collection (Verses 1-4)
- Paul provides the Corinthians with specific instructions about the relief collection for the believers in the church in Jerusalem.
- This offering is gathered in a planned way by every believer in their everyday life, so that when Paul comes, it can be delivered together.
- It shows that relief and sharing are important acts of faith within the church.
Paul’s Plan with Fellow Workers (Verses 5-12)
- As Paul explains his travel plans, he shares the reason for staying in Ephesus and his hope to visit Corinth.
- He also mentions the visit plans of other fellow workers, such as Timothy and Apollos.
- By seeing that the church is connected with various leaders, the message reveals the character of a community that encourages and respects one another.
Final Counsel and Greetings (Verses 13-24)
- Paul leaves the counsel, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong, and do everything in love," emphasizing the attitude and practice of faith.
- He mentions devoted believers such as the household of Stephanas and urges them to honor and submit to one another within the church.
- In the final greetings, he conveys greetings from many fellow workers on their behalf, blessing one another in the faith.
Meditation Point
- Faith becomes complete when it is applied practically within the community beyond mere doctrinal knowledge.
- You can reflect on how precious it is to practice sharing and serving, respecting fellow workers, and living out love.
Try Applying It to Me
- I also reflect on whether, even in small ways, I can practice sharing for my neighbors in everyday life.
- Within my relationships with brothers and sisters of faith, I can pursue a life that builds one another up with love and encouragement.
This is the last chapter of 1 Corinthians.