1 Corinthians 16:13-24

Closing Instructions and Personal Remarks

Christians must be constantly on guard against Satan. Paul encouraged them to be firm in matters of faith and not let false teachers shake their beliefs as they had on the resurrection. He also urged them to be men in the faith and courageously stand in God's strength. Still, the apostle reminded them that all of a Christian's actions should be based on love. Such should end all strife (1 Corinthians 16:13-14).

Paul told them to be subject to those who lovingly ministered to the needs of fellow Christians. He especially singled out the family of Stephanas who had been the first converts in Achaia. The apostle felt he was with the Corinthians as long as Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus were with him. While he could not see all of the Corinthians in person, Paul felt an empty spot had been filled by the coming of these three. He also felt the letter he wrote because of firsthand knowledge would provide for some of their greatest needs. So, he wanted the Corinthians to receive them as those who had helped (1 Corinthians 16:15-18).

Paul delivered greetings from some who wished the Corinthian church well, especially Aquila and Priscilla. He also wanted them to treat one another as friends. He then wrote a special hello with his own hand. The rest of the letter was probably dictated to someone who wrote it down (1 Corinthians 16:19-21).

The apostle also directed that those who did not love the Lord, should be judged and punished for their evil. He asked that the Lord come quickly so they might be judged. Likely, he also saw the Lord's coming as a means of fulfilling another of his desires which was that the Corinthians would have the Lord's blessings, especially heaven. Paul wanted them to know he loved them, despite the correction he had have to give in this letter. In fact, correction is an expression of genuine love (1 Corinthians 16:22-24).