What does 1 Corinthians 16:17 mean?
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
Explanation
1 Corinthians 16:17 expresses the Apostle Paul’s gratitude for the arrival of three individuals—Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus—to the city of Corinth. These men were likely delegates from the church in Corinth who had traveled to Ephesus to visit Paul. This verse suggests that they provided something that was missing or lacking from the Corinthians’ contributions to Paul’s ministry or needs. Essentially, these men supplemented the Corinthian church’s efforts in some way. Whether by bringing a financial gift, encouragement, or some form of practical assistance, their arrival brought joy to Paul and filled a gap in the support he had received from the Corinthians.
Historical Context
1 Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul around 55 A.D. from Ephesus during his third missionary journey. The church in Corinth had been established by Paul himself and was composed mainly of Gentile converts. The Corinthians faced various issues such as division, immorality, and misunderstandings about Christian doctrine and practice. Paul’s letter addresses these issues and aims to guide the young church. Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus were members of the Corinthian church, and their visit to Paul was an indication of ongoing communication and support between the church and Paul.
Theological Insights
From a theological viewpoint, this verse illustrates several key principles:
- The Christian practice of mutual support and edification, where believers in Christ serve and strengthen one another.
- The concept of the Body of Christ being interconnected, with each member contributing what they can to benefit the whole.
- The importance of gratitude and acknowledgment of others’ contributions within the ministry.
Different theological traditions might emphasize various aspects of this verse. For instance, Catholic and Orthodox traditions might see this as an example of the practice of early Christians regarding ecclesiastical hierarchy and the responsibility of church leaders. Protestant traditions might emphasize the priesthood of all believers and the idea that every Christian has a role to play in the ministry.
Practical Applications
Practically, this verse encourages Christians to actively seek ways to supply what is lacking within their communities and ministries. It promotes the ideas of:
- Practical generosity, by giving of one’s resources or time.
- Encouragement and support for church leaders and fellow members.
- Active participation and accountability within a church community.
- A spirit of gratitude, recognizing the efforts of others.
Cross-References
- Philippians 2:30: “Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.”
- 2 Corinthians 8:14: “But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:”
- 2 Corinthians 11:9: “And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.”
Language Study
The key words in the original Greek of this verse are:
- ἐπιποθίας (epipothias): Translating to “great desire,” indicating Paul’s strong feelings toward the presence of the three men.
- ἀνέπληρωσαν (aneplērosan): Meaning “they have filled up” or “supplied,” suggests that they fulfilled or completed something that was missing.
- ὑστέρημα (hysterēma): Refers to a “lack,” “deficiency,” or “need.”
The use of these terms emphasizes the filling of a gap and the completion of something that was insufficient or missing.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
In the context of other ancient religions and cultures, it was common to emphasize community support and patronage. This passage can be compared with texts from other religious traditions that also highlight the importance of hospitality, support, and fulfilment of each other’s needs. For example, hospitality and patronage were highly valued in Greco-Roman culture, and similar ideas are found within writings from the period.
Scientific Perspectives
There is little direct intersection between this specific verse and modern scientific understandings. However, psychological studies on gratitude and the benefits of community support could be seen as affirming the underlying principles of this verse. Social science recognizes the importance of social support networks for mental health and well-being, thereby providing empirical evidence for some of the Bible’s teachings on community life.
Commentaries
Various biblical commentators have offered interpretations of this verse:
- John Calvin sees the commendation of these three men as an example of Christian virtue and their service to Paul as essential for the work of the Gospel.
- Matthew Henry views it as Paul’s way of showing that he highly valued the assistance and company of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, and that they were God-sent to provide what was missing.
- The Pulpit Commentary suggests that Paul especially appreciated their presence because at the time he was feeling deserted or keenly felt the absence of the wider church community.
Commentators generally agree that this verse represents the commendation of heartfelt service and the Christian ideal of meeting the needs of fellow believers.
Looking for a Good 1 Corinthians Bible Study? Start Here:
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