1 Corinthians 16:13-24
Q.1. What was Paul’s final challenge to the Corinthian church? Why were they to submit to the household of Stephanas? What was their contribution? – (1 Cor.16:13-18)
Paul had addressed many problems that brought disharmony and disunity amongst the members at Corinth. He urged them – 13 Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 14 Let all that you do be done in love (1 Cor.16:13-14). Love and unity do not happen naturally. We must stay strong, stand firm, and be constantly on the alert for the enemy. We should always consider if our words and deeds will display the love of Christ. All members are equally important. However, here Paul drew attention to a dependable family in the church … the household of Stephanas. He described them as the ‘first fruits of his ministry’ and said – they have devoted themselves for ministry to the saints (1 Cor.16:15). He advised the members of the church to – be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labour in the ministry (1 Cor.16:16). He also rejoiced over the ministry of recognised itinerants – because they have supplied what was lacking on your part … more than once (1 Cor.16:17 c.f. 1 Cor.16:18).
Q.2. Who joined Paul in greeting them? How were they to relate to one another? Who wrote the letter? What do you make of the final greeting? – (1 Cor.16:19-24)
Aquilla and Prisca and the church in their house, and all the brethren urged them to – Greet one another with a holy kiss (1 Cor.16:19-20). Is it still appropriate to kiss or hug other believers? The exhortation to give a holy kiss was repeated a number of times. However, we should not cross any cultural boundaries and cause embarrassment. It seems to be acceptable to hug our Christian brothers and sisters in most churches. This expresses acceptance in a society that often discards people. Perhaps church may be the only place where some people receive a hug. Paul had dictated his letter through an amanuensis but had signed the letter in his own hand (1 Cor.16:21). He summed up the thrust of his message in this Epistle with the words – If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. (Anathema) Maranatha (1 Cor.16:22). Anathema signifies a thing devoted to destruction, and the Syriac expression, Maranatha means – the Lord is coming i.e. to execute His vengeance. The main point Paul made was that Christian faith is all about loving the Lord. He then pronounced the simple yet profound benediction – The grace of our Lord Jesus is with you (1 Cor.16:23). He closed finally with his own sincere love in Christ Jesus (1 Cor.16:24).