Our Christian Responsibilities – 1 Corinthians 16:1-24
16 Now concerning the collection for the saints: Just as I instructed the churches of Galatia, so I request that you do the same. (2) On the first day of the week each of you should set aside a portion of your income, so that no collections be made when I come. (3) Then, when I arrive, I will send the men whom you approve, along with letters of introduction, to deliver your gift to Jerusalem. (4) If it seems advisable for me to go also, then they will accompany me.
(5) After I have gone through Macedonia I will come to you, for I will only pass through Macedonia. (6) But if it is possible, I will stay with you and spend the winter, so that you may send me on my journey, wherever I may go. (7) I do not wish to see you now only in passing; rather, I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. (8) I will remain in Ephesus until Pentecost, (9) because a great door for effective ministry has opened to me, and there are many who are opposing me.
(10) Now if Timothy comes, see to it that he is welcomed among you, for he is doing the Lord’s work, just as I am. (11)Therefore, let no one treat him with contempt; but send him on his way in peace, so that he may return to me, for I am expecting him along with the brothers.
(12) Now concerning our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to come to you with the brothers; but he was not at all willing to come at this time. But he will come when he has the opportunity.
(13) Be on your guard. Stand firm in the faith. Act like men. Be strong. (14) Let all that you do be done in love.
(15) You know that the household of Stephanas was the first fruits of Achaia and that they have devoted themselves in service to the saints. I exhort you, brothers, (16) to be subject to such men as these and to all who are fellow workers and laborers.
(17) Now I rejoice at the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, for they have made up for your absence. (18) They have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore, give due recognition to such men.
(19) The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla, along with the church that meets in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. (20) All the brothers send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. (21) I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. (22) If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be under the curse of God. May our Lord come! (23) The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. (24) My love is with all of you in Christ Jesus.
Now proceed to the next section of this study, entitled, Exploring the Passage.
