1 Corinthians 16
BSB1 Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia: 2 On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will be needed. 3 Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem. 4 And if it is advisable for me to go also, they can travel with me. 5 After I go through Macedonia, however, I will come to you; for I will be going through Macedonia. 6 Perhaps I will stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go. 7 For I do not want to see you now only in passing; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. 8 But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, 9 because a great door for effective work has opened to me, even though many oppose me. 10 If Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, just as I am. 11 No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he can return to me, for I am expecting him along with the brothers. 12 Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was not at all inclined to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity. 13 Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong. 14 Do everything in love. 15 You know that Stephanas and his household were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. Now I urge you, brothers, 16 to submit to such as these, and to every fellow worker and laborer. 17 I am glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. 18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours as well. Show your appreciation, therefore, to such men. 19 The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house. 20 All the brothers here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. 21 This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. 22 If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be under a curse. Come, O Lord! 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. 24 My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Study Notes — 1 Corinthians 16
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Corinthians 16
- Themes from 1 Corinthians 16
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Corinthians 16
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In 1 Corinthians 16, Paul provides instructions on the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, urging the Corinthians to set aside a portion of their income on the first day of the week. He also shares his travel plans, including a visit to Corinth, and asks the church to welcome Timothy and Apollos. Additionally, Paul warns the church against evil workers and encourages them to be watchful and stand firm in their faith. The chapter concludes with final greetings and a benediction, as Paul expresses his love for the church and prays for their spiritual growth. Key verses, such as 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, emphasize the importance of standing firm in the faith and being watchful for potential threats to the church's unity and doctrine.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is the final chapter of the book of 1 Corinthians, and it serves as a conclusion to Paul's instructions and exhortations to the church. The chapter is part of a larger narrative that includes the entire book of 1 Corinthians, as well as the broader context of the New Testament and the early Christian church. The chapter's themes of generosity, hospitality, and unity are reflective of the larger biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of love, sacrifice, and service to others. As seen in the book of Acts, the early Christian church was characterized by a sense of community and shared responsibility, with believers working together to support one another and spread the gospel.
Heart Application
As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Christ and honoring to His name. We are called to be generous, hospitable, and watchful, standing firm in our faith and trusting in God's power and provision. By following Paul's instructions and exhortations, we can demonstrate our love for Christ and for one another, and live a life that is characterized by love, unity, and spiritual growth.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about the importance of generosity, hospitality, and unity in the body of Christ. Paul instructs the church to collect money for the poor in Jerusalem and to be watchful for false teachings. He also encourages them to stand firm in their faith and to love one another. As seen in 1 Corinthians 16:1-4, the church is called to be generous and hospitable, using their resources to support one another and advance the kingdom of God.
Voices from the Church
“The church is the body of Christ, and we are all members of it. Let us strive to be faithful and obedient members, using our gifts and talents to serve one another and spread the gospel.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The collection for the saints in Jerusalem was an important expression of the church's unity and generosity, demonstrating their love and concern for one another. As believers, we are called to be generous and hospitable, using our resources to support one another and advance the kingdom of God.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction and Instructions (1 Corinthians 16:1-4) — Paul provides instructions on the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of generosity and hospitality.
- Travel Plans and Greetings (1 Corinthians 16:5-12) — Paul shares his travel plans, including a visit to Corinth, and asks the church to welcome Timothy and Apollos.
- Warning and Exhortation (1 Corinthians 16:13-14) — Paul warns the church against evil workers and encourages them to be watchful and stand firm in their faith.
- Final Greetings and Benediction (1 Corinthians 16:15-24) — Paul concludes the chapter with final greetings and a benediction, expressing his love for the church and praying for their spiritual growth.
- Conclusion and Application — The chapter serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Christ and honoring to His name, and encourages them to apply the principles of generosity, hospitality, and unity in their own lives.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Generosity
- This chapter teaches the importance of generosity and giving, as seen in the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. Believers are called to be generous and hospitable, using their resources to support one another and advance the kingdom of God.
- The Need for Spiritual Vigilance
- The chapter emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and watchfulness, as Paul urges the church to be on guard against false teachings and evil workers.
- The Power of Love and Unity
- The chapter highlights the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ, as Paul expresses his love for the church and prays for their spiritual growth.
- The Importance of Faithfulness and Obedience
- The chapter teaches the importance of faithfulness and obedience, as Paul encourages the church to stand firm in their faith and trust in God's power and provision.
Lessons from 1 Corinthians 16
- The Importance of Generosity and Hospitality — This chapter teaches the importance of generosity and hospitality, as seen in the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. Believers are called to be generous and hospitable, using their resources to support one another and advance the kingdom of God.
- The Need for Spiritual Vigilance and Watchfulness — The chapter emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and watchfulness, as Paul urges the church to be on guard against false teachings and evil workers.
- The Power of Love and Unity in the Body of Christ — The chapter highlights the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ, as Paul expresses his love for the church and prays for their spiritual growth.
- The Importance of Faithfulness and Obedience — The chapter teaches the importance of faithfulness and obedience, as Paul encourages the church to stand firm in their faith and trust in God's power and provision.
- The Importance of Living a Life That Is Pleasing to Christ — The chapter serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Christ and honoring to His name, and encourages them to apply the principles of generosity, hospitality, and unity in their own lives.
Themes from 1 Corinthians 16
- Generosity and Hospitality — The chapter emphasizes the importance of generosity and hospitality, as seen in the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. Believers are called to be generous and hospitable, using their resources to support one another and advance the kingdom of God.
- Spiritual Vigilance and Watchfulness — The chapter emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and watchfulness, as Paul urges the church to be on guard against false teachings and evil workers.
- Love and Unity in the Body of Christ — The chapter highlights the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ, as Paul expresses his love for the church and prays for their spiritual growth.
- Faithfulness and Obedience — The chapter teaches the importance of faithfulness and obedience, as Paul encourages the church to stand firm in their faith and trust in God's power and provision.
- Living a Life That Is Pleasing to Christ — The chapter serves as a reminder to believers of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Christ and honoring to His name, and encourages them to apply the principles of generosity, hospitality, and unity in their own lives.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that I can demonstrate generosity and hospitality in my own life, and how can I use my resources to support others and advance the kingdom of God?
- How can I be more watchful and vigilant in my own faith, and what are some potential threats to my spiritual growth and development?
- What are some ways that I can stand firm in my faith and trust in God's power and provision, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties?
- How can I cultivate a deeper sense of love and unity with other believers, and what are some practical ways that I can demonstrate my love and concern for others?
- What are some ways that I can apply the principles of this chapter in my own life, and how can I use the teachings of Paul to guide my decisions and actions?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction and Instructions (1 Corinthians 16:1-4)
| 16:1 | Paul provides instructions on the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of generosity and hospitality. |
| 16:2 | The church is to set aside a portion of their income on the first day of the week, demonstrating their love and concern for one another. |
| 16:3 | Paul will send a team to collect the gift, and the church is to prepare it in advance, showing their willingness to serve and support one another. |
| 16:4 | If it is advisable, Paul may accompany the team, emphasizing the importance of accountability and oversight in the church's financial dealings. |
2. Travel Plans and Greetings (1 Corinthians 16:5-12)
| 16:5 | Paul shares his travel plans, including a visit to Corinth, and asks the church to welcome Timothy and Apollos. |
| 16:6 | Paul may spend the winter with the church, and they are to provide for his journey, demonstrating their love and concern for one another. |
| 16:7 | Paul does not want to visit the church in passing, but hopes to spend some time with them, emphasizing the importance of meaningful relationships and community in the body of Christ. |
| 16:8 | Paul will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, and the church is to pray for him, showing their dependence on God's power and provision. |
| 16:9 | A great door for effective work has opened for Paul, but there are many opponents, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance and watchfulness. |
| 16:10 | The church is to welcome Timothy and Apollos, and not to be afraid of them, demonstrating the importance of humility and a willingness to learn from others. |
| 16:11 | The church is to help them on their journey, and to provide for their needs, showing their love and concern for one another. |
| 16:12 | Apollos was unwilling to visit the church at that time, but will come when the time is right, emphasizing the importance of discernment and timing in ministry. |
3. Warning and Exhortation (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)
| 16:13 | Paul warns the church to be on their guard, to stand firm in the faith, and to be courageous and strong, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance and watchfulness. |
| 16:14 | The church is to do everything in love, demonstrating the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ. |
4. Final Greetings and Benediction (1 Corinthians 16:15-24)
| 16:15 | The household of Stephanas is to be honored, as they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints, demonstrating the importance of humility and a willingness to serve others. |
| 16:16 | The church is to submit to such people, and to everyone who works and labors with them, showing their love and concern for one another. |
| 16:17 | Paul is glad for the visit of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, as they have supplied what was lacking from the church, emphasizing the importance of community and shared responsibility. |
| 16:18 | They have refreshed Paul's spirit, as well as the spirits of the church, demonstrating the importance of meaningful relationships and community in the body of Christ. |
| 16:19 | The churches of Asia send their greetings, and Aquila and Priscilla send their greetings, along with the church that meets at their house, showing their love and concern for one another. |
| 16:20 | All the brothers send their greetings, and the church is to greet one another with a holy kiss, demonstrating the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ. |
| 16:21 | Paul writes the greeting with his own hand, emphasizing the importance of personal touch and meaningful relationships in ministry. |
| 16:22 | If anyone does not love the Lord, they are to be accursed, emphasizing the importance of love and devotion to Christ. |
| 16:23 | The grace of the Lord Jesus be with the church, demonstrating the importance of God's power and provision in the lives of believers. |
| 16:24 | Paul's love be with the church in Christ Jesus, showing his love and concern for them, and emphasizing the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the collection for the saints in Jerusalem?
The collection for the saints in Jerusalem was an important expression of the church's unity and generosity, demonstrating their love and concern for one another. As seen in 1 Corinthians 16:1-4, the church was to set aside a portion of their income on the first day of the week to support the poor in Jerusalem.
Why is it important for the church to be watchful and vigilant?
The church is to be watchful and vigilant because there are many opponents and false teachings that can threaten their faith and unity. As seen in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14, Paul warns the church to be on their guard and to stand firm in the faith.
What is the significance of the benediction at the end of the chapter?
The benediction at the end of the chapter is a prayer for the church's spiritual growth and well-being, and serves as a reminder of God's power and provision in their lives. As seen in 1 Corinthians 16:23-24, Paul prays for the church, asking that the grace of the Lord Jesus be with them, and that his love be with them in Christ Jesus.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Corinthians 16:1 → 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 | The collection for the saints in Jerusalem is also mentioned in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, where Paul encourages the church to give generously and cheerfully. |
| 2 | 1 Corinthians 16:2 → Acts 20:7 | The practice of setting aside a portion of one's income on the first day of the week is also mentioned in Acts 20:7, where Paul meets with the church in Troas on the first day of the week. |
| 3 | 1 Corinthians 16:13 → Ephesians 6:10-18 | The exhortation to be watchful and vigilant is also mentioned in Ephesians 6:10-18, where Paul encourages the church to put on the armor of God and to stand firm against the devil's schemes. |
| 4 | 1 Corinthians 16:14 → 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 | The importance of doing everything in love is also emphasized in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, where Paul writes that love is the greatest of all the gifts. |
| 5 | 1 Corinthians 16:20 → Romans 16:16 | The practice of greeting one another with a holy kiss is also mentioned in Romans 16:16, where Paul encourages the church to greet one another with a holy kiss. |
| 6 | 1 Corinthians 16:22 → John 14:15 | The importance of loving the Lord is also emphasized in John 14:15, where Jesus says that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments. |
| 7 | 1 Corinthians 16:23 → Galatians 6:18 | The benediction at the end of the chapter is similar to the benediction in Galatians 6:18, where Paul prays that the grace of the Lord Jesus be with the church. |
| 8 | 1 Corinthians 16:24 → Philippians 4:23 | The importance of God's love and grace is also emphasized in Philippians 4:23, where Paul prays that the grace of the Lord Jesus be with the church. |
| 9 | 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 → Deuteronomy 16:10-11 | The concept of giving to those in need is also found in Deuteronomy 16:10-11, where God commands the Israelites to give to the poor and to celebrate the Feast of Weeks. |
| 10 | 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 → Psalm 119:1-8 | The importance of standing firm in the faith and being watchful is also emphasized in Psalm 119:1-8, where the psalmist writes about the importance of following God's law and being faithful to Him. |
Sermons on 1 Corinthians 16
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Every Day Is Easter by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the message of the Apostle Paul in chapter 16 of his letter. The preacher emphasizes the importance of helping others and living in the will |
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Are You Ready for a Relationship? by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the impact of media and video games on our perception of reality. He highlights how the constant bombardment of fantastical images and experie |
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Be My Witnesses (Compilation) by Compilations | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making a difference in the world and not living a self-consumed life. They urge listeners to not let the sun go down withou |
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Personal Victory for the New Year by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on a verse written by Paul, emphasizing the importance of being watchful as Christians. He highlights that we cannot simply muddle through the |
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(Godly Home) Part 8 - Wholehearted Households by Denny Kenaston | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the best over the good in our lives. He highlights how easily we can become distracted and busy with various |
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David Guzik Testimony by David Guzik | This sermon from 1 Corinthians chapter 16 focuses on the concept of open doors in our lives, emphasizing the importance of recognizing, embracing, and walking through the opportuni |
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Be Men by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fathers taking an active role in teaching the word of God to their children. He references several passages from the Bible, |
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Automobile Evangelism by William Booth | This sermon reflects on the inspiring courage and determination of William Booth, a 75-year-old man who embraced innovative methods like using a motor car for campaigning in 1904, |
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(Bible Analysis of Man) Man's Imagination by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering all thoughts, memories, conscience, and imagination to the Lord. The sermon focuses on the book of Genesis, s |
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An Open Door (Part 6) by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of a minister who spent 40 years preaching rules and regulations before truly preaching about Jesus. The speaker emphasizes the |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Corinthians 16
In this chapter, Paul provides instructions on the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, and encourages the church to be generous and hospitable. He also warns them to be watchful and vigilant, and to stand firm in their faith. The chapter concludes with a benediction, as Paul prays for the church's spiritual growth and well-being. Through this chapter, we see the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Christ and honoring to His name, and the need for believers to be faithful and obedient to God's commands. As Matthew Henry writes, 'The church is the body of Christ, and we are all members of it. Let us strive to be faithful and obedient members, using our gifts and talents to serve one another and spread the gospel.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Generosity
The chapter emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving, as seen in the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. This highlights the need for believers to be willing to sacrifice and give to others, demonstrating their love and concern for one another.
The Need for Spiritual Vigilance
Paul's exhortation to be watchful and stand firm in the faith serves as a reminder to the church of the importance of spiritual vigilance and perseverance in the face of challenges and threats to the faith.
The Power of Love and Unity
The chapter concludes with a benediction, as Paul expresses his love for the church and prays for their spiritual growth, highlighting the importance of love and unity in the body of Christ.