1 Corinthians 16 17

1 Corinthians 16:17 kjv

I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied.

1 Corinthians 16:17 nkjv

I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part they supplied.

1 Corinthians 16:17 niv

I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.

1 Corinthians 16:17 esv

I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have made up for your absence,

1 Corinthians 16:17 nlt

I am very glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have come here. They have been providing the help you weren't here to give me.

1 Corinthians 16 17 Cross References

VerseTextReference
1 Cor 16:15The household of Stephanas were the first convertsCommitment to service and ministry
Acts 16:15Lydia was the first convert in Philippi, and hosted PaulHospitality and first fruits
Rom 16:5Epenetus, the first convert in Asia, was commendedSpiritual pioneers and dedication
Phil 2:19-20Timothy was commended for his concern for the PhilippiansConcern for others' well-being
Phil 4:18Paul acknowledged the Philippians' gifts as a fragrant aromaSacrificial giving and spiritual odor
2 Cor 7:6-7Titus brought Paul encouragement and reliefFellowship and mutual encouragement
2 Cor 12:13Paul's labor among them was not inferiorApostolic authenticity and sacrifice
Gal 6:6Those taught the word should share in all good thingsSupport for those who minister
1 Tim 5:17-18Elders who rule well are worthy of double honorFinancial support for leaders
Phlm 1:7Paul expressed joy over Philemon's love and refreshing spiritFellowship that refreshes the heart
Heb 13:7Remember your leaders who spoke the word of GodHonoring spiritual leaders
Heb 13:17Obey your leaders and submit to themSubmission to spiritual authorities
3 John 1:4No greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truthJoy in spiritual offspring
Prov 17:17A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversityLoyalty and support in difficult times
John 13:35By this all people will know that you are my disciplesLove for one another as a sign
Col 4:12Epaphras prayed earnestly for themPersistent prayer and spiritual labor
Eph 4:16The whole body grows and builds itself up in loveEdification through supportive action
Acts 18:24-28Apollos powerfully refuted the JewsEloquent teachers and effective ministry
Rom 12:7-8If service, let him serve; if one teaches, let him teachDistinctive spiritual gifts of service
Acts 6:1-7The selection of deacons to serve tablesPrioritizing spiritual ministry

1 Corinthians 16 verses

1 Corinthians 16 17 Meaning

This verse emphasizes the joyful spiritual kinship and mutual refreshment that existed between the apostle Paul and the individuals from the household of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus. They were the first converts in Achaia and had dedicated themselves to serving the needs of the Corinthian believers and Paul himself. Their presence brought Paul immense comfort and relief, highlighting the importance of such faithful support within the early church.

1 Corinthians 16 17 Context

This verse concludes the chapter and the letter to the Corinthians. In the preceding verses (1 Corinthians 16:13-16), Paul had given several concluding instructions to the church in Corinth. These included calls for watchfulness, steadfastness in faith, boldness, and love. He also mentioned the household of Stephanas, their service, and their willingness to help others. This particular verse then serves as a personal acknowledgment and commendation of these faithful individuals who brought significant comfort and support to Paul during a potentially difficult period. Their presence represented a concrete expression of Christian fellowship and loyalty within the Corinthian church, addressing the disunity and challenges that had marked their community throughout the letter.

1 Corinthians 16 17 Word analysis

  • "for" (γὰρ - gar): A common conjunction indicating a reason or explanation for the preceding statement. It links Paul's earlier exhortations with this commendation.
  • "their" (αὐτῶν - autōn): Possessive pronoun, referring to Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus.
  • "spirit" (πνεῦμα - pneuma): Refers to the Holy Spirit or their spiritual disposition, their attitude, or their innermost being. Here it signifies their inner disposition and spirit of service.
  • "refreshed" (ἀνέπαυσαν - anepausan): From ἀναπαύω (anapauō), meaning "to give rest," "to refresh," "to cause to rest." It implies bringing relief, comfort, and renewed vigor. This word highlights the positive impact their presence had on Paul.
  • "your" (ὑμῶν - humōn): Possessive pronoun, referring to the Corinthian believers.
  • "spirit" (πνεῦμα - pneuma): Again, signifying their inner disposition and character.
  • "as" (ὥσπερ - hōsper): A comparative conjunction, meaning "just as," "even as." It draws a parallel or likeness.
  • "you" (ὑμεῖς - hymeis): Second person plural pronoun, referring directly to the Corinthians.

Words/Groups Analysis:

  • "the spirit... refreshed the spirit": This repetition emphasizes a profound mutual spiritual impact. The spiritual attitude and actions of Stephanas and his companions brought spiritual comfort and revitalization to Paul, and by extension, affirmed the Corinthians' own spirit of acceptance and appreciation. It speaks to the deep spiritual connection and mutual edification possible in the body of Christ.
  • "refreshed your spirit": This clause indicates that their actions were not only a personal comfort to Paul but also beneficial to the broader spiritual state of the Corinthian church. Their dedication and loyalty, in being recognized, would have positively influenced the spiritual atmosphere among the recipients of the letter.

1 Corinthians 16 17 Bonus section

The mention of "Stephanas" signifies a person who was "crowned" or "garlanded," possibly reflecting a spiritual victory or a new status in Christ. Fortunatus and Achaicus are more common names. Their combined presence represents a significant pillar of support within the early Corinthian church, counterbalancing the factions and challenges the apostle had been addressing. This personal touch in a letter, filled with doctrinal correction and ethical instruction, underscores Paul's pastoral heart and his appreciation for genuine relationships. It also subtly models for the Corinthians how they should regard and honor such devoted brothers.

1 Corinthians 16 17 Commentary

This verse highlights the vital role of faithful individuals in supporting and encouraging ministry leaders. Stephanas and his companions exemplify selfless service and provide a powerful reminder that behind apostolic work are often dedicated individuals whose practical and spiritual support is invaluable. Their actions are presented as a model of the kind of care and commitment that believers should show to those who labor among them in the Gospel. Their contribution was a source of relief and joy, demonstrating that spiritual refreshment is a reciprocal gift within the fellowship of believers, fostering a healthy and supportive church environment.