2020-11-5

1 Corinthians 16:1-20

Paul shared words regarding collecting money for God’s people. He suggested Christians should be in a habit of setting aside money in proportion to their income for offerings. This offering could be in a form of love offerings for those who are in need, such as in this case for the poor Christians in Jerusalem. By setting aside money for offering, Christians are more apt to plan ahead and therefore less likely to give under compulsion.  Gifts given in such manner were ready to be sent out when Paul arrived thereby relieving the urgent needs of their fellow believers in Jerusalem.  This is a reminder to us not to drag our feet when it comes to sending aid to those who are in need.

Paul desires to spend time with the Corinthians. He was looking forward to being refreshed and perhaps provided for by the Corinthians for his next journey (v. 5-6). Like all good missionaries, he communicated his plans for his visit and for his missionary work in Ephesus. He committed his plans to the Lord when he said “… if the Lord permits” (v.7), recognized the opportunity to share the gospel – …“because a great door of effective work has opened to me” (v. 8), and at the same time he acknowledged the danger of his ministry. It is a reminder for Christians to show their support to missionaries in ways that will help to refresh them. Our fellowship, hospitality and financial support will help missionaries to face the challenges of their work. Reports from missionaries will help fellow Christians to know how to pray for them as well as what can be provided to meet their needs. Missionary reports can also be a testimony to the Lord – a reason for fellow Christians to rejoice.

Paul gave instructions to receive and affirm his aide and protege- Timothy (v.10-11).  Young Christians who are rising to serve in church ministry need encouragement and guidance from their older mentor. How do we encourage our young men and women to serve? We can certainly commend them for their willingness to serve.

Paul appealed to the Corinthians to be on guard against spiritual dangers, stand firm in their faith, behave courageously, be strong, and to do everything in love. This command still rings true for us Christians today.  Christians are being bombarded with temptations, distractions and daily depressing news. If we are not careful, we can lose focus of our finishing line, and forfeit our prize (crown).  Feeding on the Word of God and fellowshipping with other believers are paramount in guarding ourselves from backsliding and maintaining our love for each other.

Paul urged the Corinthians to submit to those who devoted themselves to serving the saints. Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus probably traveled to meet Paul, bringing him the gifts from other believers, letters and encouragement. Their fellowship with Paul refreshed him and Paul wanted such people to be recognized.  How true it is even today, many of us have experienced the service of our brothers and especially the sisters of our church who serve tirelessly in the kitchen. They have refreshed many of us without much recognition.

Lastly, Paul signed off his letter with a curse: “If anyone who does not love the Lord- a curse is on him”. Loving the Lord is the foundation of our obedience to His teachings. Let us love the Lord with all our heart, soul and mind!           —- Lai Yee Leong