Q1. How should we interpret this verse?
Q2. How should we apply it to our earthly pilgrimage?
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Verse 15 is half a sentence; it needs to be read together with verse 16. They make a two-verse paragraph. This two-verse paragraph is closely connected with the next two-verse paragraph. The two paragraphs are on the same subject.
1Co 16:15-16
¶ I beseech you,
brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of
Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)
that ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and
laboureth.
Note the words in
brackets; leave them out first, and the two verses read, “I beseech you,
brethren, that ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth
with us, and laboureth.”
Put this way, Paul’s main message in the paragraph becomes clear – exhorting the proud, self-absorbed, and aloof Corinthian believers to submit to those men who help and labour with the Apostle Paul. Stephanas was such a man. Apostle Paul provides more information about him, powerful information that should convict and move any reasonable men to comply with Paul’s beseechment, “… submit yourselves unto such…”
The words in brackets give a concrete example of the men the Apostle Paul is speaking about; Stephanas was such a man, a man most useful to Apostle Paul and his ministry, such “that helpeth with us, and laboureth.” In addition to that, Stephanas and his household have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints, something most appreciated by the Apostle Paul; it complements well with Paul’s ministry. To be addicted is to be devoted to it, heartily and with diligence; they cheerfully and voluntary give themselves to minister to the saints, likely needy saints. Such good and useful men deserve the respect and honour from believers.
Q2. How should we
apply it to our earthly pilgrimage?
- Lead the whole
household to imitate him… support the work your pastor is doing; be fellow
labourers.
- Don’t be like the
Corinthian believers.
