Free Bible Commentary
“1 Corinthians 16:15-18”
Categories: 1 Corinthians“Now I urge you, brethren (you know the household of Stephanas, that they were the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves for ministry to the saints), that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors. I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part. For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.”
---End of Scripture Verses---
The Bible was written TO real people, it’s truth was taught BY real people and much of the subject matter is ABOUT real people. I love it when Paul acknowledges the men and women who enriched his life as he traveled and worked among them in his service to the Lord. Stephanas was a man that Paul helped to convert and he personally baptized him and his household (1 Corinthians 1:16). Anyone who has ever baptized someone for the forgiveness of sins and into Jesus Christ knows what a special privilege and honor that is, and what an emotional bond that is forged between the two participants.
Stephanas and his family devoted themselves to the “ministry of the saints” (verse 15). They gave themselves fully to serving their brothers and sisters in Christ as they displayed their working faith on a daily basis. It is only fitting that people such has him should have their names immortalized in the annals of inspired Scripture. Many others have served in this capacity and yet have gone essentially unrecognized, and many faithful servants fly under the radar today as well. God knows who they were and are. Comfort can be taken from knowing that if God recognized people like Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus, He has taken note of the faithful hearts and works of His other dedicated workers as well.
“They have refreshed my spirit and yours” (verse 18). These men delivered the letter from the brethren in Corinth to the Apostle Paul that encouraged him greatly. It was wonderful news to Paul that his brethren still loved him, and they had enough confidence in him to ask him a bunch of questions that were weighing heavily upon their hearts. These three special servants brought back the good news to Paul in the form of a letter and verbal salutations. Brothers and sisters in Christ should be a breath of fresh air to one another! We are all bonded together by spiritual ties that run deeply and eternally. Let’s do that! Let’s refresh one another! I know that most of us have a lot of work to do in that area. Especially that guy I see in the mirror every day!
Please finish up this amazing letter tomorrow by reading 1 Corinthians 16:19-24.
Please come worship God in spirit and truth with us today at the Taylorsville Road church of Christ!
3741 Taylorsville Road. 9:30 AM Bible class. 10:30 AM worship period. 5:00 PM worship period.
Praying all the mothers have a great Mother’s Day! Have a blessed Lord’s Day!
- Louie Taylor
