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1 Corinthians 16

24 verses

TL;DR

Paul urges the Corinthians to collect for the saints, shares his travel plans and encourages steadfast faith and charity.

Summary

Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians of the collection for the saints, mirroring his instructions to Galatia, and urges them to set aside contributions on the first day of the week. He outlines his upcoming travels through Macedonia, expressing a desire to stay wintering in the region and to remain in Ephesus until Pentecost, while acknowledging the need for a great door and many adversaries. Paul encourages the congregation to welcome Timothy with confidence, to respect Apollos, and to be strong in faith and charity. He commends Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus for their ministry and for strengthening his spirit, and encourages the believers to recognize their efforts. The chapter concludes with greetings from Aquila, Priscilla, and the churches of Asia, a command to greet one another with a holy kiss, and a farewell signifying Paul’s love and grace in Christ.

Outline
  1. 1. Call to collect for the saints and set aside funds
  2. 2. Paul's travel plans, encouragement to faith and charity
  3. 3. Greetings, commendations, and farewell from Paul
Themes
generosity and collectionfaith and steadfastnesschurch unity and hospitality
Keywords
collectionfaithcharitychurchtravelgenerosityunity
People
PaulTimothyApollosStephanasFortunatusAchaicusAquilaPriscilla
Places
MacedoniaEphesusAsiaPentecost
Things
collection for the saintslettersholy kiss
Key Verses
  • 1 Corinthians 16:1: Introduces the collection and sets the practical framework for generosity
  • 1 Corinthians 16:13: A key exhortation to stand firm in faith and exhibit strength
  • 1 Corinthians 16:20: Demonstrates early church etiquette and community bonding through the holy kiss
Questions
  • What motivates Paul's insistence on early contributions?
  • How does Paul balance his travel plans with pastoral care?
  • In what ways does the 'holy kiss' reflect the social context of the early church?
  • How does Paul’s encouragement to Timothy and Apollos model leadership development?
  • What role does personal testimony of encouragement (Stephanas, Fortunatus, Achaicus) play in the community?
  • How can modern believers apply the principles of generosity and steadfast faith outlined here?
Sentiment

neutral
Balanced exhortation and friendly greetings with no overtly negative tone