Paul began this chapter with the phrase “Now about…,” signaling he was answering another question from the Corinthians—this time about the collection for God’s people in Jerusalem. He had given the same instructions to the churches in Galatia so that Corinth would not carry this burden alone. Judea had been struck by severe famines, creating deep economic hardship for the believers there. The church had survived the first famine (A.D. 46–47) with the help of relief delivered by Paul and Barnabas (Acts 11:28–30), but later shortages hit hard. Paul saw it as the Gentile churches’ spiritual duty to help the Jerusalem believers, since they had received the gospel from them (Romans 15:26–27). For Paul, meeting the needs of the poor was not a side ministry—it was an essential part of the church’s calling (Galatians 2:10).
He gave practical instructions for the collection: it should be taken on the first day of every week—the day Christians gathered for worship (Acts 20:7; Revelation 1:10). Giving was to be a regular act of worship, not a last-minute scramble. Each believer was expected to contribute, not a set amount, but in proportion to their income. Paul didn’t demand a percentage, but the Old Testament tithe likely provided a guiding principle. Giving was to be done willingly and joyfully, not grudgingly. The money was to be saved up ahead of time so that when Paul arrived, he wouldn’t have to organize a collection on the spot.
Paul also gave wise safeguards for handling the funds. He wouldn’t take the money himself to avoid suspicion or temptation. Instead, the Corinthians were to choose trusted people to carry it, and Paul would provide letters of introduction so the Jerusalem church would receive them confidently. If it made sense, the couriers could travel with Paul to deliver the gift personally.
Paul then shifted to his travel plans. He intended to pass through Macedonia before visiting Corinth and hoped to spend the winter with them so they could “help him on his way,” a phrase meaning to supply food, funds, and companions for the journey. His delay in coming was not because he didn’t care—he wanted to spend quality time with them, if the Lord allowed. For now, he would remain in Ephesus because “a great door for effective work” had opened, even though there were many opponents. Paul recognized both opportunity and opposition as indicators to stay and minister.
Paul also addressed how they should receive Timothy. Knowing some in Corinth might be critical, he urged them to welcome Timothy warmly, not intimidate him. Though young, shy, and sometimes in poor health, Timothy was doing the Lord’s work and deserved respect. Paul also mentioned Apollos, explaining that although Paul had urged him to visit, Apollos was not ready to go at that time, but would come later.
Before closing, Paul gave five short but powerful commands: be on guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong, and do everything with love. In a divided church, love was essential. Paul then commended Stephanas and his household, the first converts in Achaia, who had devoted themselves to serving the saints. He urged the church to honor and submit to leaders like them who worked hard for the kingdom. Stephanas, along with Fortunatus and Achaicus, had refreshed Paul’s spirit and deserved recognition.
Paul ended with warm greetings. The churches in the province of Asia sent their love, as did Aquila and Priscilla and the believers who met in their home. All the brothers and sisters with Paul sent greetings. He encouraged the Corinthians to greet one another with a holy kiss—a cultural sign of family affection, now sanctified for God’s people. Writing the final lines in his own hand, Paul added a sober warning: anyone who does not love the Lord is under God’s curse. He cried out, “Come, Lord!” longing for Jesus’ return to set things right. Finally, he blessed them with the grace of the Lord Jesus and assured them of his love for them all in Christ.
Truths and Lessons for Today
1. Giving Is an Act of Worship, Not Just Charity
Paul linked financial giving to weekly worship, showing that generosity is part of how we honor God. It’s not about a set amount but giving proportionately and willingly.
🡲 Application: Build giving into your regular worship rhythm. Give in proportion to your income, joyfully, knowing it supports God’s work and blesses His people.
📖 “On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned.” (1 Corinthians 16:2, NLT)
2. God’s Work Requires Both Wisdom and Integrity
Paul put safeguards in place for handling money, choosing trusted people, and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety. Ministry must be handled above reproach.
🡲 Application: Be intentional about transparency and accountability in all areas of life, especially when stewarding resources entrusted to you.
📖 “We are careful to be honorable before the Lord, but we also want everyone else to see that we are honorable.” (2 Corinthians 8:21, NLT)
3. Strength and Love Must Work Together
Paul urged the Corinthians to be watchful, strong, and courageous—but also to do everything in love. Truth without love hardens; love without strength weakens.
🡲 Application: Stand firm in your convictions, but let your actions be motivated and softened by love. Both are needed to reflect Christ well.
📖 “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13–14, NLT)
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