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.

And {G1161} it may be {G5177} that I will abide {G3887}, yea {G2228}, and {G2532} winter {G3914} with {G4314} you {G5209}, that {G2443} ye {G5210} may bring {G4311} me {G3165} on my journey {G4311} whithersoever {G3757}{G1437} I go {G4198}.

and I may stay with you or even spend the winter, so that you may help me continue my travels wherever I may go.

Perhaps I will stay with you awhile, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go.

but with you it may be that I shall abide, or even winter, that ye may set me forward on my journey whithersoever I go.

Commentary

1 Corinthians 16:6 reveals Apostle Paul's flexible and practical travel plans, demonstrating his commitment to the Corinthian church and his reliance on their support for his ongoing missionary work. This verse is part of his concluding remarks and instructions in his first letter to Corinth, offering a glimpse into the logistics of early Christian ministry.

Context

This verse follows Paul's initial mention of his intention to visit Corinth after passing through Macedonia (1 Corinthians 16:5). Here, he expands on that plan, indicating a potential longer stay. Paul is writing from Ephesus, likely around A.D. 55-56, addressing various issues within the Corinthian church, from divisions and immorality to spiritual gifts and the resurrection. His proposed visit was not merely social but crucial for reinforcing his teachings, addressing ongoing problems, and solidifying the faith of the believers. The mention of "wintering with you" highlights the practical considerations of travel in the ancient world, where sea voyages were often suspended during the colder, stormier months.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Care and Presence: Paul's willingness to spend a significant period, even a winter, with the Corinthians underscores his deep pastoral care and desire to be personally present with the churches he founded. This commitment transcended mere letters; it involved personal discipleship and fellowship.
  • Hospitality and Support for Ministry: The phrase "that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go" (Greek: propempein - προπέμπειν) is significant. It implies more than just seeing him off; it means providing for his needs, offering provisions, financial support, and perhaps even an escort for the next leg of his travels. This highlights the early church's role in practicing hospitality and supporting those who preached the gospel, a concept Paul also discusses elsewhere (Galatians 6:6).
  • Strategic Planning in Ministry: Paul's consideration of the seasons for travel reveals a practical and strategic approach to ministry. He wasn't reckless but planned his journeys to maximize effectiveness and safety, adapting to the realities of his environment.
  • Interdependence in the Body of Christ: This verse subtly illustrates the reciprocal relationship between an apostle and the churches. Paul poured out his life for them, and in return, they were expected to support his ongoing mission.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek verb propempein (προπέμπειν), translated as "bring me on my journey," literally means "to send forward" or "to send on one's way." In the context of travel in the ancient world, it carried the connotation of providing for the traveler's needs, including supplies, money, and companionship, to ensure a safe and successful journey. It was a common act of kindness and support, especially for those involved in public service or ministry. This goes beyond a simple farewell; it denotes active, tangible assistance.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 16:6 offers several enduring lessons:

  1. Support for Missionaries and Ministers: Just as the Corinthians were expected to assist Paul, Christians are called to support those who dedicate their lives to ministry, whether locally or globally. This support can be financial, practical, or through prayer, enabling them to continue their work effectively.
  2. The Value of Personal Presence: While digital communication is prevalent, Paul's desire to "abide" and "winter" with the Corinthians reminds us of the irreplaceable value of personal presence, fellowship, and face-to-face interaction in building strong relationships and healthy church communities.
  3. Practicality in Service: Ministry is not just spiritual but also involves practical considerations. Paul's awareness of travel seasons encourages us to be wise and strategic in our service, planning effectively to maximize our impact for the Kingdom.
  4. Generosity and Hospitality: The call to "bring me on my journey" is a timeless reminder to be generous and hospitable, offering our resources and time to meet the needs of others, especially those who serve the Lord. This reflects a heart of love and genuine care for fellow believers and ministers of the gospel.
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Cross-References

  • Acts 15:3

    And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

  • 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 17:15

    And they that conducted Paul brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.

  • Titus 3:12

    When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:11

    Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:16

    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.

  • 3 John 1:6

    Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou bring forward on their journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well:
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