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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 1 Corinthians 16:13–18. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
In this passage the apostle gives,
I.Some general advices; as,
1.That they should watch (Co1 16:13), be wakeful and upon their guard. A Christian is always in danger, and therefore should ever be on the watch; but the danger is greater at some times and under some circumstances. The Corinthians were in manifest danger upon many accounts: their feuds ran high, the irregularities among them were very great, there were deceivers got among them, who endeavoured to corrupt their faith in the most important articles, those without which the practice of virtue and piety could never subsist. And surely in such dangerous circumstances it was their concern to watch. Note, If a Christian would be secure, he must be on his guard; and the more his danger the greater vigilance is needful for his security.
2.He advises them to stand fast in the faith, to keep their ground, adhere to the revelation of God, and not give it up for the wisdom of the world, nor suffer it to be corrupted by it - stand for the faith of the gospel, and maintain it even to death; and stand in it, so as to abide in the profession of it, and feel and yield to its influence. Note, A Christian should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert nor renounce it. It is by this faith alone that he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation; it is by faith that we stand (Co2 1:24); it is by this that we must overcome the world (Jo1 5:4), both when it fawns and when it frowns, when it tempts and when it terrifies. We must stand therefore in the faith of the gospel, if we would maintain our integrity.
3.He advises them to act like men, and be strong: "Act the manly, firm, and resolved part: behave strenuously, in opposition to the bad men who would divide and corrupt you, those who would split you into factions or seduce you from the faith: be not terrified nor inveigled by them; but show yourselves men in Christ, by your steadiness, by your sound judgment and firm resolution." Note, Christians should be manly and firm in all their contests with their enemies, in defending their faith, and maintaining their integrity. They should, in an especial manner, be so in those points of faith that lie at the foundation of sound and practical religion, such as were attacked among the Corinthians: these must be maintained with solid judgment and strong resolution.
4.He advises them to do every thing in charity, Co1 16:14. Our zeal and constancy must be consistent with charity. When the apostle would have us play the man for our faith or religion, he puts in a caution against playing the devil for it. We may defend our faith, but we must, at the same time, maintain our innocence, and not devour and destroy, and think with ourselves that the wrath of man will work the righteousness of God, Jam 1:24. Note, Christians should be careful that charity not only reign in their hearts, but shine out in their lives, nay, in their most manly defences of the faith of the gospel. There is a great difference between constancy and cruelty, between Christian firmness and feverish wrath and transport. Christianity never appears to so much advantage as when the charity of Christians is most conspicuous when they can bear with their mistaken brethren, and oppose the open enemies of their holy faith in love, when every thing is done in charity, when they behave towards one another, and towards all men, with a spirit of meekness and good will.
II.Some particular directions how they should behave towards some that had been eminently serviceable to the cause of Christ among them.
1.He gives us their character (1.) The household of Stephanas is mentioned by him, and their character is, that they were the first-fruits of Achaia, the first converts to Christianity in that region of Greece in which Corinth was. Note, It is an honourable character to any man to be early a Christian, betimes in Christ. But they had moreover addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints, to serve the saints. They have disposed and devoted themselves - etaxan heautous, to serve the saints, to do service to the saints. It is not meant of the ministry of the word properly, but of serving them in other respects, supplying their wants, helping and assisting them upon all occasions, both in their temporal and spiritual concerns. The family of Stephanas seems to have been a family of rank and importance in those parts, and yet they willingly offered themselves to this service. Note, It is an honour to persons of the highest rank to devote themselves to the service of the saints. I do not mean to change ranks, and become proper servants to the inferiors, but freely and voluntarily to help them, and do good to them in all their concerns. (2.) He mentions Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus, as coming to him from the church of Corinth. The account he gives of them is that they supplied the deficiencies of the church towards him, and by so doing refreshed his spirit and theirs, Co1 16:17, Co1 16:18. They gave him a more perfect account of the state of the church by word of mouth than he could acquire by their letter, and by that means much quieted his mind, and upon their return from him would quiet the minds of the Corinthians. Report had made their cause much worse than it was in fact, and their letters had not explained it sufficiently to give the apostle satisfaction; but he had been made more easy by converse with them. It was a very good office they did, by truly stating facts, and removing the ill opinion Paul had received by common fame. They came to him with a truly Christian intention, to set the apostle right, and give him as favourable sentiments of the church as they could, as peace-makers. Note, It is a great refreshment to the spirit of a faithful minister to hear better of a people by wise and good men of their own body than by common report, to find himself misinformed concerning them, that matters are not so bad as they had been represented. It is a grief to him to hear ill of those he loves; it gladdens his heart to hear the report thereof is false. And the greater value he has for those who give him this information, and the more he can depend upon their veracity, the greater is his joy.
2.Upon this account of the men, he directs how they should behave towards them; and,
(1.)He would have them acknowledged (Co1 16:11), that is, owned and respected. They deserve it for their good offices. Those who serve the saints, those who consult the honour and good esteem of the churches, and are concerned to wipe off reproaches from them, and take off from the ill opinion fame had propagated, are to be valued, and esteemed, and loved. Those who discover so good a spirit cannot easily be over-valued.
(2.)He advises that they should submit themselves to such, and to all who helped with the apostles, and laboured, Co1 16:16. This is not to be understood of subjection to proper superiors, but of a voluntary acknowledgment of their worth. They were persons to whom they owed peculiar respect, and whom they should have in veneration. Note, It is a venerable character which those bear who serve the saints and labour hard to help the success of the gospel, who countenance and encourage the faithful ministers of Christ, and endeavour to promote their usefulness. Such should be had in honourable esteem.
Historical interpretation
Three Centuries of Reception
6 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
From Syria even unto Rome I fight with beasts not that I am devoured by brute beasts, for these, as ye know, by the will of God, spared Daniel, but by beasts in the shape of men, in whom the merciless wild beast himself lies hid, and pricks and wounds me day by day. But none of these hardships "move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself," in such a way as to love it better than the Lord. Wherefore I am prepared for [encountering] fire, wild beasts, the sword or the cross, so that only I may see Christ my Saviour and God, who died for me. I therefore, the prisoner of Christ, who am driven along by land and sea, exhort you: "stand fast in the faith," and be ye steadfast, "for the just shall live by faith; " be ye unwavering, for "the Lord causes those to dwell in a house who are of one and the same character."
And while she spoke to me, two men appeared and raised her on their shoulders, and they went to where the chair was in the east. With joyful countenance did she depart; and as she went, she said to me, "Behave like a man, Hermas."
And in another place: "Watch ye, and pray, and stand fast in the faith. Quit you like men, and be strong. Let all things be done with charity."
They were to be watchful, in case they were secretly attacked in their faith. They were to stand firm, being bold in confessing what they had been taught. They were to be strong in both word and deed, because it is the right combination of these which enables people to mature.
Paul tells them to be courageous and strong, like an athlete or soldier of Christ, doing everything with love toward God and each other.
Afterwards indicating that not in the teachers but in themselves they ought to have their hopes of salvation, he saith, "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith."
Not in the wisdom which is without: for there it is not possible to stand, but to be borne along; even as "in the faith" ye may "stand." "Quit you like men, be strong." "Let all that ye do be done in love." Now in saying these things, he seems indeed to advise; but he is reprimanding them as indolent. Wherefore he saith, "Watch," as though they slept; "Stand," as though they were rocking to and fro: "Quit you like men," as though they were playing the coward: "Let all that ye do be done in love," as though they were in dissensions. And the first caution refers to the deceivers, viz., "Watch," "stand:" the next, to those who plot against us, "Quit you like men:" the third, to those who make parties and endeavor to distract, "Let all that ye do be done in love;" which thing is "the bond of perfectness," and the root and fountain of all blessings.
But what means, "All things in love?" "Whether any one rebuke," saith he, "or rule or be ruled, or learn or teach, let all be in love:" since in fact all the things which have been mentioned arose from neglect of it. For if this had not been neglected, they would not have been puffed up, they would not have said, "I am of Paul, and I of Apollos." If this had existed, they would not have gone to law before heathens, or rather they would not have gone to law at all. If this had existed, that notorious person would not have taken his father's wife: they would not have despised the weak brethren; there would have been no factions among them; they would not have been vain-glorious about their gifts. Therefore it is that he saith, "Let all things be done in love."
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Summary
In 1 Corinthians 16:13, the Apostle Paul delivers a potent, four-fold imperative to the Corinthian church, encapsulating a foundational charge for Christian living. This verse serves as a concise yet comprehensive call to spiritual vigilance, unwavering faith, courageous action, and reliance on divine strength, urging believers to adopt a posture of readiness and fortitude in their walk with God amidst the challenges of their time.
Context
Literary Context
This verse appears as part of Paul's concluding remarks in his first letter to the Corinthians, following extensive discussions on various issues plagulating the church, such as divisions, immorality, lawsuits, marital matters, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection. Chapters 15 and 16 shift towards eschatological hope and practical instructions. Specifically, chapter 16 addresses the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, Paul's travel plans, and commendations for individuals like Timothy and Apollos, before culminating in a series of direct, urgent exhortations (verses 13-14) and final greetings. Verse 13, therefore, acts as a spiritual summary, a distilled charge for the Corinthian believers to maintain their spiritual integrity and resolve before Paul's final benediction in verse 23. It's a call to practical, lived theology, reinforcing the principles Paul has been teaching throughout the letter.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Corinthian church was situated in a prominent Roman colony, a bustling port city known for its wealth, diverse population, and notorious immorality, particularly associated with the temple of Aphrodite. This environment presented significant challenges to Christian purity and unity. The believers themselves were a mix of Jewish and Gentile converts, struggling with internal factions, pride, spiritual immaturity, and the pervasive influence of pagan practices. Paul's letter addresses these specific issues, urging them towards unity, love, and sanctification. The commands in verse 13 reflect the need for spiritual resilience in a hostile cultural landscape, demanding a distinct counter-cultural stance. The call to "quit you like men" (or "act like men") would have resonated strongly in a Greco-Roman context where masculinity was often associated with courage, honor, and self-control, though Paul redefines this through a Christ-centered lens.
Key Themes
1 Corinthians 16:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter. It underscores the theme of spiritual maturity by calling believers to move beyond their previous immaturity and divisions towards a steadfast and courageous faith, as seen in Paul's earlier plea for unity in 1 Corinthians 1:10. The emphasis on "standing fast in the faith" reinforces the importance of doctrinal integrity and unwavering commitment to the Gospel truth, a recurring concern given the various theological misunderstandings and moral laxity present in Corinth. Furthermore, the commands to "watch" and "be strong" highlight the necessity of spiritual vigilance and divine empowerment in the face of temptation and opposition, echoing Paul's broader teaching on Christian endurance and reliance on God's strength, as he articulates in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From egeirō, meaning "to keep awake, i.e. watch (literally or figuratively)." This term conveys the imperative for spiritual alertness and vigilance. It implies an active state of awareness, not merely being awake, but being watchful against spiritual dangers, temptations, and the subtle influences of the world. It is a call to be ever-ready, anticipating both challenges and the Lord's return.
A primary preposition denoting "fixed position (in place, time or state), and (by implication) instrumentality." In this context, "in" signifies the sphere or realm within which the believers are to stand fast. It's not merely a passive state but an active posture within the framework of Christian belief and practice, indicating a deep, abiding connection to the tenets of the faith.
Middle voice from anēr, meaning "to act manly." This phrase, often translated as "act like men" or "be courageous," is a call to spiritual maturity, bravery, and resolve. It is not gender-specific but rather an idiomatic expression for fortitude and steadfastness in the face of adversity, implying a courageous and responsible approach to Christian living, transcending childishness or timidity.
From krataios, meaning "to empower, i.e. (passively) increase in vigor." This command is a call to be strengthened, to grow in spiritual might. It suggests a reliance on a power beyond oneself, indicating that Christian strength is not self-generated but divinely imparted and cultivated through spiritual disciplines and dependence on God.
Verse Breakdown
"Watch ye"
This initial command sets the tone for the entire verse, emphasizing the need for spiritual alertness and vigilance. It calls believers to be awake to spiritual realities, aware of potential dangers (temptation, false teaching, spiritual apathy) and opportunities for service, and to live with an expectant posture regarding the Lord's work and return.
"stand fast in the faith"
Following the call to watchfulness, this imperative urges unwavering commitment to the core truths and doctrines of Christianity. "The faith" here refers to the body of Christian belief and the personal trust in Christ. To "stand fast" implies maintaining one's ground, refusing to be swayed by doubts, cultural pressures, or erroneous teachings, and remaining firm in conviction and practice.
"quit you like men"
This idiomatic expression, translated as "act like men" or "be courageous," is a powerful call to spiritual maturity and fortitude. It challenges believers to demonstrate bravery, resolution, and responsibility in their Christian walk, facing challenges head-on with spiritual courage rather than succumbing to fear, immaturity, or compromise. It's an exhortation to live with integrity and boldness.
"be strong"
The final command complements the preceding ones by emphasizing the source of this spiritual capacity. It is a call to be empowered, not by self-effort, but by drawing upon divine strength. This strength is essential for enduring trials, overcoming sin, and fulfilling God's purposes, reminding believers that their spiritual fortitude is ultimately rooted in God's might.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several Literary Devices to make his concluding charge impactful. The verse is a powerful example of Imperative Mood, using four direct commands ("Watch ye," "stand fast," "quit you like men," "be strong") that convey urgency and directness, demanding immediate action from the recipients. This creates a sense of direct address and personal responsibility. The structure is also a form of Parallelism or Chiasmus (though a loose one), where each command builds upon the previous, creating a cumulative effect of spiritual readiness and resilience. The phrase "quit you like men" is an Idiom, a culturally specific expression that, while literally meaning "act like a man," carries the figurative connotation of demonstrating courage, maturity, and resolve, transcending gender to speak to spiritual fortitude. The entire verse functions as a Summary Statement or Climax of Paul's practical exhortations, distilling the essence of his pastoral counsel into a memorable and actionable charge.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The four imperatives of 1 Corinthians 16:13 collectively paint a picture of the robust and resilient Christian life, deeply rooted in both personal discipline and divine empowerment. The call to "watch" connects to the broader biblical theme of vigilance, not only against spiritual adversaries but also in anticipation of Christ's return, urging believers to live with a sense of urgency and readiness. "Standing fast in the faith" underscores the non-negotiable importance of doctrinal fidelity and unwavering commitment to the truth of the Gospel, especially in a world prone to shifting ideologies. The exhortation to "act like men" (courageously) elevates Christian maturity beyond mere knowledge to courageous action and steadfastness in the face of adversity, reflecting a Christ-like resolve. Finally, "being strong" highlights the fundamental theological truth that true spiritual strength is not self-generated but is a gift and ongoing empowerment from God, enabling believers to fulfill their calling and endure trials. This verse thus encapsulates the dynamic interplay between human responsibility and divine grace in the Christian walk.
Reflection and Application
1 Corinthians 16:13 offers a timeless blueprint for a vibrant and resilient Christian life, urging believers to cultivate an active, engaged, and courageous faith in every season. It challenges us to move beyond passive belief to intentional spiritual discipline and unwavering commitment. To "watch" means to live with spiritual awareness, discerning the times and recognizing the subtle influences that seek to derail our faith. To "stand fast in the faith" calls for a firm grounding in biblical truth, resisting the temptation to compromise or be swayed by popular opinion. To "quit you like men" (act courageously) is an invitation to embrace spiritual maturity, facing life's challenges with resolve and integrity, embodying Christ-like character even when it's difficult. Finally, to "be strong" reminds us that this fortitude is not self-derived but flows from our dependence on God's inexhaustible power, empowering us to live out our calling. This verse is a powerful reminder that the Christian journey is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are willing to actively engage, stand firm, act boldly, and rely fully on the Lord.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "quit you like men" mean in modern English?
In modern English, "quit you like men" (KJV) is best understood as "act like men," "be courageous," or "show yourselves to be brave and mature." The Greek word andrízomai (ἀνδρίζομαι) literally means "to act like a man," but in this context, it's an idiom that transcends gender, calling all believers to spiritual fortitude, resolution, and maturity in their faith. It's an exhortation to face challenges with bravery and integrity, rather than being childish or timid, as Paul often encourages believers to grow in maturity (e.g., Ephesians 4:13-14).
Is 1 Corinthians 16:13 a command for men only?
No, 1 Corinthians 16:13 is a command for all believers, both men and women. While the phrase "quit you like men" uses a masculine idiom in the original Greek (andrízomai), its meaning is a call to spiritual courage, maturity, and steadfastness that applies universally to the Christian life. Paul frequently addresses the entire church in his epistles, and the principles of vigilance, faith, courage, and strength are essential for every follower of Christ, regardless of gender. The Bible consistently calls both men and women to spiritual strength and bravery, as seen in the examples of figures like Deborah (Judges 4) and Esther (Esther 4:16).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 1 Corinthians 16:13 is a direct exhortation to believers, its deepest fulfillment and enabling power are found in Christ. Jesus Himself perfectly embodied every one of these imperatives. He was the ultimate "watcher," constantly vigilant against the schemes of the enemy and always attuned to the Father's will, even praying through the night in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:40-41). He "stood fast in the faith" with unwavering commitment to God's truth and mission, never deviating from His divine purpose, even when facing immense opposition and temptation (Hebrews 12:2). Christ supremely "quit Himself like a man," demonstrating unparalleled courage and resolve in the face of suffering, betrayal, and death, willingly going to the cross for the redemption of humanity (Luke 9:51). And it was through His divine nature and reliance on the Father that He was supremely "strong," overcoming sin, death, and the grave, establishing His eternal kingdom (Colossians 2:15). Therefore, for believers, these commands are not merely human efforts but a call to live in Christ, drawing our ability to watch, stand, act courageously, and be strong from His indwelling Spirit and His finished work on the cross (Philippians 4:13). He is the source and pattern of all true spiritual fortitude.