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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
Historical Reception
2 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.
Thus, since it was natural for them to be greatly irritated against these persons, for it was they who had come and showed him all about the division, inasmuch as by them also they had written the questions about the virgins, and about the married persons:-mark how he softened them down; both in the beginning of his Epistle by saying, "For it hath been signified unto me by them which are of the house of Chloe;" thus at once concealing these and bringing forward the others: (for it should seem that the latter had given their information by means of the former:) and in this place again, "They have supplied your lack, and refreshed my spirit and yours:" signifying that they had come instead of all, and had chosen to undertake so great a journey on their behalf. How then may this, their peculiar praise, become common? "If you will solace me for what was wanting on your part by your kindness towards them; if you will honor, if you will receive, them, if you will communicate with them in doing good." Wherefore he saith, "Acknowledge ye then them that are such." And while praising those that came, he embraces also the others in his praise, the senders together with the sent: where he saith, "'They refreshed my spirit and yours, therefore acknowledge such as these,' because for your sakes they left country and home." Dost thou perceive his consideration? He implies that they had obliged not Paul only, but the Corinthians likewise, in that they bore about in themselves the whole city. A thing which both added credit to them, and did not allow the others to sever themselves from them, inasmuch as in their persons they had presented themselves to Paul.
These are the people who took Paul’s letter to Corinth, and they are also the ones who had brought the Corinthians’ letter about marriage to him. Paul wrote the letter when he was at Philippi.
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Summary
The Apostle Paul expresses profound joy and relief at the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus from Corinth. Their presence was a significant encouragement to him, as they effectively "supplied" or "filled up" a deficiency that existed from the Corinthian church's side, likely providing much-needed information, practical support, and personal fellowship to Paul during his ministry in Ephesus.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated at the very end of Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians, specifically within his closing remarks and personal greetings in 1 Corinthians 16. Having addressed numerous theological and practical issues throughout the letter—from divisions and immorality to spiritual gifts and the resurrection—Paul transitions to more personal matters. He discusses the collection for the saints in Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 16:1-4), outlines his future travel plans (1 Corinthians 16:5-9), and offers various exhortations and greetings (1 Corinthians 16:10-24). The arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus is mentioned as a personal note of encouragement, underscoring the importance of personal connection and mutual support within the early Christian community, even amidst the challenges Paul faced with the Corinthian church.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul was likely writing this letter from Ephesus, a major Roman city in Asia Minor, during his third missionary journey (circa A.D. 55-56). Communication between churches and apostles in the ancient world relied heavily on trusted individuals who would travel, carry letters, and deliver verbal reports. The Corinthian church, founded by Paul, was a vibrant but problematic community, plagued by internal strife, moral issues, and doctrinal misunderstandings. It is highly probable that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus were delegates sent by the Corinthian church to Paul, perhaps carrying a letter from them (see 1 Corinthians 7:1), or bringing news of the church's condition. Their journey from Corinth (in Greece) to Ephesus (in modern-day Turkey) would have been significant, involving sea travel and considerable time. Their presence would have provided Paul with firsthand accounts, allowing him to address the specific issues detailed in his letter with greater accuracy and pastoral insight.
Key Themes
This verse contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Corinthians. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Christian Fellowship and Mutual Support. Despite the many criticisms Paul leveled against the Corinthians, the presence of these men from their church demonstrates a continuing bond and the practical outworking of love and concern within the body of Christ. Secondly, it underscores the Importance of Personal Presence in Ministry. Paul, though often writing letters, deeply valued face-to-face interaction, which brought him joy and enabled more effective communication and pastoral care. This is evident in his desire to visit them personally (1 Corinthians 16:5-7). Lastly, the concept of "supplying what was lacking" speaks to the theme of Addressing Deficiencies and Completing Ministry. Whether it was information, encouragement, or practical assistance, these men filled a void, illustrating how different members of the church contribute to the wholeness and effectiveness of gospel ministry, a concept Paul elaborates on extensively in 1 Corinthians 12.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primary verb means "to be cheerful," "calmly happy," or "well-off." It expresses a deep sense of joy and contentment. Paul's use of this word indicates that the arrival of these men was not merely convenient but brought genuine emotional and spiritual solace, alleviating burdens or anxieties he may have been carrying concerning the Corinthian church.
Derived from a verb meaning "to be behind" or "to come short," this noun signifies a "deficit," "deficiency," "want," or "poverty." It implies something incomplete or missing. In this context, it refers to a void or need on the part of the Corinthians that Paul felt, which these men were able to address through their presence and service. It could relate to information, representation, or even personal encouragement that the distant church could not otherwise provide.
This compound verb combines aná (up, again) and plēróō (to fill, complete). It means "to complete," "to fill up," "to occupy," or "to supply." The word suggests making whole what was incomplete or filling a void. It conveys the idea that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus did not just help, but they brought to completion something that was deficient, effectively making up for the absence or inability of the broader Corinthian church to be present with Paul.
Verse Breakdown
"I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus"
Paul begins by expressing his personal joy and satisfaction. The "coming" (Greek: parousía) implies not just their arrival but their presence. This indicates the profound value Paul placed on personal fellowship and the encouragement he received from these specific individuals. Their names, Stephanas (likely the first convert in Achaia, 1 Corinthians 16:15), Fortunatus, and Achaicus, suggest they were well-known and respected members of the Corinthian community, likely serving as official representatives.
"for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied"
This clause provides the reason for Paul's gladness. The phrase "that which was lacking on your part" refers to a deficiency or absence from the Corinthian church itself. This "lacking" was not a moral failing but an inherent limitation due to distance and the inability of the entire church to be physically present with Paul. These three men "supplied" or "filled up" this deficit. This could mean they brought Paul up-to-date information about the church's condition, served as a personal link between Paul and the distant community, or provided Paul with much-needed personal encouragement and practical assistance during his demanding ministry in Ephesus. Their presence was a tangible expression of the Corinthian church's care and connection, making up for the void created by the church's physical absence.
Literary Devices
Paul's expression in 1 Corinthians 16:17 primarily employs a Personal Tone, characteristic of his closing remarks in many epistles. This direct, heartfelt declaration of gladness ("I am glad") reveals Paul's emotional investment in the churches he served and his reliance on personal relationships for support in ministry. The phrase "that which was lacking on your part they have supplied" can be seen as a subtle Metaphor or Metonymy. "That which was lacking on your part" refers not to a literal missing object, but to the absence of the collective Corinthian church's presence, support, and direct communication. The men "supplied" this lack, acting as a living embodiment of the church's concern and providing what was otherwise impossible to convey through mere letters. This effectively uses the part (the three men) to represent the whole (the Corinthian church's care), and the action of "supplying" vividly conveys the idea of filling an emotional or informational void.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse beautifully illustrates the essential nature of mutual ministry and the interconnectedness of the body of Christ. Paul, despite his apostolic authority and profound spiritual gifts, was not self-sufficient. He relied on the practical support, fellowship, and communication provided by fellow believers. The "lack" from the Corinthians' side was not a flaw, but a natural consequence of physical distance, and the "supply" by Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus highlights how God uses individuals to meet the needs of others within the community of faith. This reciprocal relationship—where those ministered to also minister to the minister—is a vital aspect of healthy church life, demonstrating that every member has a role in building up the whole, providing encouragement, and facilitating the work of the gospel.
Reflection and Application
In an age increasingly characterized by digital communication and remote interaction, Paul's joy at the physical "coming" of these men serves as a powerful reminder of the irreplaceable value of personal presence and genuine fellowship within the Christian community. It challenges us to consider how we might "supply what is lacking" for those in ministry, for fellow believers, and for our local church. This could involve offering practical help, providing a listening ear, sharing encouraging words, or simply being a faithful, present member of the body. Our presence, our prayers, and our practical support can fill voids, alleviate burdens, and bring profound joy and strength to others, just as Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus did for Paul. This verse calls us to active, empathetic participation in the lives of our spiritual family, recognizing that ministry is a shared endeavor where every contribution, however seemingly small, can make a significant difference.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who were Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, and why were they significant?
Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus were three men from the Corinthian church who traveled to meet Paul, likely in Ephesus. Stephanas is explicitly identified earlier in the letter as one of the very first converts in Achaia and a member of a household devoted to the ministry of the saints (1 Corinthians 16:15). While Fortunatus and Achaicus are not given similar background, their inclusion alongside Stephanas suggests they were trusted and respected members of the Corinthian community, possibly serving as official delegates sent to Paul. Their significance lies in their role as vital links between Paul and the distant, often troubled, Corinthian church, bringing news, providing encouragement, and representing the believers there.
What does Paul mean by "that which was lacking on your part they have supplied"?
Paul's statement "that which was lacking on your part they have supplied" refers to a deficiency or void that existed due to the physical distance between Paul and the Corinthian church. It was not a moral failing on the Corinthians' part, but simply the inability of the entire church to be present with Paul. Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus "supplied" this lack by providing several crucial things: they likely brought Paul up-to-date information about the church's condition, allowing him to address specific issues in his letter; they served as personal representatives of the Corinthian believers, bridging the geographical and relational gap; and they provided Paul with much-needed personal fellowship, encouragement, and perhaps practical assistance during his demanding ministry. Their presence filled a significant void for Paul, bringing him joy and strengthening his connection to the church.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 1 Corinthians 16:17 describes a practical act of human service, it resonates with the ultimate "supply" and "fulfillment" found in Jesus Christ. The concept of "that which was lacking" finds its profoundest answer in Christ, who perfectly supplied all that humanity lacked due to sin. He is the one who "fills all in all" (Ephesians 1:23), completing what was deficient in our relationship with God and providing everything necessary for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Furthermore, as the Head of the Church, Christ uses His body, believers, to continue His work of "supplying" and building up. Just as Paul found joy and strength in the presence of these brothers, so Christ is glorified as His people sacrificially serve one another, filling needs and extending His love and truth in the world. In a mysterious way, believers are called to "fill up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions" for the sake of His body (Colossians 1:24), not by adding to His perfect atoning work, but by participating in the ongoing spread of His kingdom and enduring hardship for the gospel's sake, thereby making His presence and provision known to a world in desperate need.