Paul’s letter to the Corinthians comes to an end. The apostle passionately calls on believers in Corinth to stand fast and do everything in love, glorifying God as we walk the narrow path the leads to eternal life.
“13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. 14 Let all that you do be done with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)
In tune with the teachings of Jesus, the apostle invites believers to do as Christ did, offering our bodies as living, holy sacrifices doing onto others as He would, with love.
“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.” (1 Corinthians 16:15-16)
Paul mentions Stephanas and his family, the first Corinthians to convert to Christianity and be baptized by the apostle himself. The household of Stephanas is also believed to have been the first converts in Achaia, a region located south of Greece.
“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.” (1 Corinthians 16:17-18)
Paul makes reference to Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus who are believed to be the letter bearers. the apostle calls on the Corinthians to acknowledge all three based not only on their faith, but devotion to Christ through Paul’s ministry.
“19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.” (1 Corinthians 16:19)
Paul extends salutations from Aquila and Priscilla, both servants of the Lord in Ephesus where the apostle was at the time he wrote this epistle to the Corinthians. The early church did not meet in buildings rather in believers’ houses, including Aquila and Priscilla’s house.
“20 All the brethren greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. 21 The salutation with my own hand—Paul’s.” (1 Corinthians 16:20-21)
Paul calls on believers in Corinth to greet each other with a “holy kiss,” a tradition based on the Jewish ritual of the time which was meant to show mutual reverence and love for God.
“22 If anyone does not love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed. O Lord, come! 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:22-24)
Paul warns those who are not in Christ that in rebuking the Lord unbelievers put a curse on themselves which leads to eternal life in hell.
Adversely those who believe in Christ and surrender control to God are, through divine grace, blessed among all creations of the earth. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
