What does 2 Corinthians 1:16 mean?

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And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judaea. 2 Corinthians 1:16

Explanation

2 Corinthians 1:16 highlights the Apostle Paul’s travel plans to visit the believers in Corinth. In the verse, Paul describes a route that he intends to take that includes passing through Macedonia before coming to Corinth, and then after his visit to Corinth, he planned to travel to Judea, where Jerusalem is located. The mention of being “brought on my way” indicates that he hoped the Corinthians would assist him, perhaps through companionship, financial support, or other means, on his journey to Judaea. These travel arrangements suggest an itinerary and also reveal the close relationships and mutual support among the early Christian communities.

Historical Context

The verse is part of Paul’s second canonical letter to the Corinthians, commonly dated to the mid-1st century AD. During this time, the Apostle Paul engaged in several missionary journeys to spread the Christian message across the Roman Empire. Macedonia and Achaia (where Corinth was situated) were provinces within this Empire. Corinth was a major city known for its commerce and diversity of beliefs. The context here relates to Paul’s communication with a church he had previously founded and the logistical and interpersonal dynamics of planning a visit in the ancient world.

Theological Insights

Theologically, the verse underscores the Apostle Paul’s dedication to maintaining relationships with the Christian communities he founded. It reflects his missionary zeal, pastoral care, and the value of strong community ties within the early Church. From a theological standpoint, the willingness to be supported by the church in Corinth also touches on the themes of Christian fellowship and the support of ministry work by the body of believers.

Practical Applications

This verse exemplifies the importance of planning and communicating in ministry and personal relationships. It encourages believers to support one another in their endeavors, particularly in the work of spreading the Christian faith. The idea of being “brought on my way” can be applied to modern Christian practice by showing hospitality, offering support to missionaries, or simply helping fellow church members in their journey of faith.

Cross-References

Romans 15:24: “Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.”
Acts 20:2: “And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece,”
1 Corinthians 16:6: “And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go.”

Language Study

The phrase “to be brought on my way,” translated from the Greek “propemphthēnai” (προπεμφθῆναι), carries the idea of being sent forward on one’s journey with help or supplies, which may include food, money, or companionship. The verb form given here suggests a future passive intent, indicating Paul’s wish or expectation to receive support and assistance from the Corinthians in the future.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In Greco-Roman culture, it was common for community members and patrons to assist travelers by providing them with provisions and safe passage. This practice was not solely for Christian missionaries but was a broader cultural norm. The Christian expression of this practice, as seen in this verse, also ties into the Jewish tradition of hospitality towards travelers and those engaged in religious work.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse does not directly relate to any scientific perspectives, as the focus is on travel and missionary support. However, in examining Paul’s plans to travel, one could explore the logistics of travel in the ancient world, including the methods of transportation, routes typically taken, travel time, and the physical and geographical challenges travelers faced during this period.

Commentaries

Commentators have noted that Paul’s mention of his travel plans in 2 Corinthians 1:16 demonstrates the importance he placed on face-to-face interactions within the Christian community. According to the Pulpit Commentary, the plans that Paul outlines in his letter also reveal the non-linear nature of his travels and a willingness to adapt his plans as needed for the sake of the ministry. Moreover, in Matthew Henry’s Commentary, Henry suggests that Paul’s focus on being helped in his journey reveals the custom of those times, where friends would not only accompany a traveler part of the way but also provide support and provisions to aid them on their travels. This aspect of mutual care among Christians is emphasized as a demonstration of practical love and fellowship.