1
Concerning the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches in Galatia.

2
On the first day of every week, each of you is to set something aside, according to what he has prospered, and store it up at home, so that the collection will not have to be made when I come.

3
And when I arrive, I will send those whom you approve, with letters to Jerusalem, to carry your gift.

4
If it should be fitting for me also to go, they will go along with me.

5
I will come to you after I pass through Macedonia, for I am going through Macedonia.

6
And perhaps I will stay with you for some time, or even spend the winter, so that you may help me on my way.

7
For I do not want to see you now only in passing. I hope to stay with you for a while, if the Lord permits.

8
But I will stay in Ephesus until the day of Pentecost,

9
for a great and important work is open to me here, even though there are many opponents.

10
If Timothy comes to you, see that he is among you without fear, for he is doing the Lord’s work, just as I am.

11
Therefore let no one despise him! But help him on his way in peace, so that he may come back to me, for I am waiting for him here together with the brothers.

12
Now concerning our brother Apollos: I urged him many times to come to you with the other brothers, but he was by no means willing to come now. When he has a good opportunity, he will come.

13
Be watchful! Stand firm in the faith! Be courageous! Be strong!

14
Let all that you do be done in love!

15
I have one more request to make to you, brothers. You know that Stephanas and his household were the first converts in Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints.

16
Therefore submit to people like these, and to everyone who works and labors with them.

17
I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part;

18
for they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Honor people like these!

19
The churches in Asia send you greetings. Aquila, Priscilla, and the church in their house send you abundant greetings.

20
Peace be with you from all the brothers and sisters. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

21
I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand.

22
If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed. Maranatha!

23
The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.

24
My love be with you all in Christ Jesus.

📖 1 Corinthians 16 – Final Instructions and the Spirit of Service

🧾 Summary of Contents

This chapter contains Paul’s closing words to the church in Corinth. He gives instructions concerning the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, mission travel plans, and various loving greetings from his fellow workers.

✨ Explanation by Section

1. Instructions about the Offering (verses 1–4)

“On the first day of every week, each of you is to set something aside, in keeping with what you have gained…”

• Paul encourages the church to collect offerings regularly and privately, each week.
• The purpose is to help fellow believers who are poor in Jerusalem.

💡 Teaching: Giving to others should be done regularly, willingly, and responsibly.

2. Paul’s Plans and Those with Him (verses 5–12)

“For I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, because a great opportunity has opened up for me here…”

• Paul explains that he plans to come to Corinth, but will remain longer in Ephesus because the opportunity for ministry is still great.
• He mentions Timothy, Apollos, and the importance of receiving them well.
• Paul gives the message that they should stand firm in the faith and be strong.

💡 Teaching: Ministry is the result of wise planning and cooperation in the body of Christ.

3. Greetings and Final Exhortation (verses 13–24)

“Be watchful! Stand firm in the faith! Act like men! And be strong!”

• Brief but strong exhortations:

• • Be watchful.

  • Stand firm in the faith.

  • Do everything with love.

• Paul sends greetings from the other churches, including the church in the house of Aquila and Priscilla.
• He ends with his personal signature, showing its authenticity.
• He also affirms: “If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be accursed.”

💡 Meaning: Christian life and service cannot be separated from love, faith, and firmness in the truth.

📘 Main Teachings of 1 Corinthians 16

1. Giving to others is an important part of the life of Christ’s followers.
2. Ministry needs planning, responsibility, and cooperation.
3. Be steadfast in the faith and do everything with love.
4. The church is one body — welcoming, supporting, and praying for one another.
5. Christ is the center of all things — love for Him is what matters most.

✨ Spiritual Meaning

This chapter teaches that Christian faith is not only about doctrine, but also about practical living. Paul emphasizes the importance of social responsibility (through offerings), teamwork, love in community, and steadfastness in faith. At the end of all service, love for Christ and love for others are clear evidence of living faith.