1 Corinthians 16:13-18

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith -- 1 Corinthians 16:13-18: Paul's desire was that the brethren would keep alert for any false teaching. He wanted them to be firm in their faith and to stay brave and strong in God's service. But in all of this he wanted them to be reminded to show love in everything they did.

An example of the steadfastness that Paul desired of these brethren would be the house of Stephanas. They were the first in Achaia to have faith in the Lord. Paul said, "They have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints." That means that they had done all they could for God's people. Paul said that the brethren should hear the exhortations of people like them and yield to their advice or admonition.

Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus came to Paul and it was such an encouragement to him. They supplied things that were lacking that had not been supplied by the Corinthians. They refreshed Paul's spirit. Having these brethren there was like having the Corinthians present. These brethren were a blessing both to Paul and to the church at Corinth.