1 Corinthians 16

This chapter provides closing instructions and greetings from Paul to the church in Corinth. This chapter includes practical matters concerning the collection for the saints, personal plans of Paul and his associates, and exhortations for the believers. It concludes with greetings and final blessings, emphasizing unity, love, and vigilance in the Christian faith.

1 Corinthians 16:1-4 (NKJV)
1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also:
2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.
3 And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem.
4 And if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.

Paul begins by addressing the financial collection for the struggling believers in Jerusalem. He instructs the Corinthian church to follow the same procedure he set for the churches in Galatia, advocating for regular, systematic contributions each Sunday. This ensures that the funds are ready and no last-minute collections are needed upon his arrival. The approved persons, with letters of recommendation, would be responsible for safely delivering these contributions to Jerusalem, and Paul indicates his willingness to accompany them if appropriate.

1 Corinthians 16:5-9 (NKJV)
5 Now I will come to you when I pass through Macedonia, for I am passing through Macedonia.
6 And it may be that I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I go.
7 For I do not wish to see you now on the way, but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits.
8 But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost,
9 for a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.

Paul outlines his travel plans, expressing his intention to visit Corinth after passing through Macedonia. He hints at possibly staying with them through the winter, which would facilitate support for his journey ahead. His plan to remain in Ephesus until Pentecost is due to significant ministerial opportunities and challenges he faces there. This segment underscores the strategic nature of Paul's missionary efforts and his dependence on God’s guidance ("if the Lord permits").

1 Corinthians 16:10-12 (NKJV)
10 And if Timothy comes, see that he may be with you without fear; for he does the work of the Lord, as I also do.
11 Therefore let no one despise him. But send him on his journey in peace, that he may come to me; for I am waiting for him with the brethren.
12 Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brethren, but he was quite unwilling to come at this time; however, he will come when he has a convenient time.

Paul discusses the movements of his coworkers, Timothy and Apollos. He instructs the Corinthians to receive Timothy warmly and ensure his safety, highlighting the importance of respecting those who do the Lord's work. Despite Paul's wishes, Apollos is not ready to visit Corinth immediately but intends to do so when possible. This reflects the autonomy and varied commitments of Paul’s fellow workers in the ministry.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NKJV)
13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.
14 Let all that you do be done with love.

These verses serve as a concise exhortation to the Corinthians, emphasizing vigilance, courage, and strength in their Christian conduct. Paul's overarching command is for all actions to be motivated by love, encapsulating the central message of Christian ethics and behavior.

1 Corinthians 16:15-18 (NKJV)
15 I urge you, brethren—you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints—
16 that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us.
17 I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they supplied.
18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.

Paul recognizes the household of Stephanas as the first converts in Achaia who have dedicated themselves to serving the saints. He encourages the Corinthian believers to respect and follow the lead of such dedicated individuals. The presence of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus in Ephesus (where Paul was writing from) had been a great encouragement to him, compensating for the absence of the Corinthian church. Their service had spiritually refreshed both Paul and, by extension, the Corinthians, meriting recognition and appreciation.

1 Corinthians 16:19-24 (NKJV)
19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.
20 All the brethren greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
21 The salutation with my own hand—Paul.
22 If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.
23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Paul conveys personal greetings from fellow believers, highlighting the interconnectedness of the early church. He encourages expressions of love and unity, like greeting one another with a holy kiss, showing the depth of Christian fellowship. In verse 22, Paul includes the striking phrase "Anathema Maranatha": "Anathema" means "accursed," warning that those who reject or fail to love the Lord Jesus Christ are separated from God’s blessings, while "Maranatha," meaning "Our Lord comes," reminds believers of the certainty and imminence of Christ's return. This blend of warning and hope calls readers to unwavering love and devotion to Christ, as His grace and love are the foundation of the Christian life.