OUR FATHER FOR WHOM ALL THINGS MUST BE DONE IN LOV

The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians chapter 16 verses 1 - 24, concludes his monumental letter to the Corinthians with some logistics and housekeeping .

He describes his own movements around Asia Minor where some effective doors were opening for the work of the ministry but as well, harboured many enemies.

He lists a number of places and people in commendation and in greeting;

Places:

• Galatia - To whom he wrote the letter ˋGalatiansˋ
• Jerusalem - Showing that it was still integrated with the expanding network
• Macedonia - Passing through on the way north but perhaps wintering there
• Ephesus - To whom he wrote the letter of towering revelation: Ephesians
• Achaia - Mentioned as the home town of the household of Stephanas
• Asia -  Mentioned as a regionally unified administrative area

Individuals:

• Timothy- Commended as a fellow worker in the Lord
• Apollos - Described as a brother in Christ who was unwilling to visit 
• Stephanas - His household is named the first in Christ in the area and faithful 
• Fortunatus - Faithful helper, encourager and supporter of the ministry
• Achaicus  Faithful helper, encourager and supporter of the ministry
• Aquila - Passed hearty greetings from the churches in Asia
• Priscilla - Passed hearty greetings from the churches in Asia

Paul encourages the Corinthians to be watchful, steadfast in faith, brave, strong and loving.

1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: 2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. 3 And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem. 4 But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.

5 Now I will come to you when I pass through Macedonia (for I am passing through Macedonia). 6 And it may be that I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I go. 7 For I do not wish to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits.

8 But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost. 9 For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.

10 And if Timothy comes, see that he may be with you without fear; for he does the work of the Lord, as I also do. 11 Therefore let no one despise him. But send him on his journey in peace, that he may come to me; for I am waiting for him with the brethren.

12 Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to come to you with the brethren, but he was quite unwilling to come at this time; however, he will come when he has a convenient time.

13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. 14 Let all that you do be done 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.

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.

19 The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Priscilla greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. 20 All the brethren greet you. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

21 The salutation with my own hand—Paul’s.

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.

Amen.

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