1 Corinthians 16:6

KJV

And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 16:6, the Apostle Paul outlines his flexible travel plans to Corinth, expressing a desire to potentially stay through the winter and emphasizing his reliance on the Corinthian church's practical support for his onward missionary journeys. This verse offers a window into the logistical realities of apostolic ministry in the ancient world, highlighting Paul's deep pastoral commitment, the early church's role in supporting gospel workers, and the strategic planning required for effective evangelism and discipleship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the concluding remarks of Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, following his extensive theological and pastoral instructions on various church issues. In the preceding verse, [1 Corinthians 16:5](/1_corinthians/16-5 "1 Corinthians 16:5 - Paul's Travel Plans to Macedonia") Paul states his intention to visit Corinth after passing through Macedonia. Verse 6 then elaborates on this plan, suggesting a potentially longer stay, perhaps even through the winter, before being "brought on his journey." This section (1 Corinthians 16:5-9) functions as Paul's personal itinerary, revealing his strategic thinking regarding future ministry movements and his dependence on the churches for practical assistance. It is followed by instructions regarding Timothy's visit and Apollos's plans, further cementing the practical, collaborative nature of early Christian leadership.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote 1 Corinthians from Ephesus, likely between A.D. 55-56. Travel in the ancient world, especially by sea, was heavily influenced by seasons. The winter months (roughly November to March) were considered dangerous for sea voyages due to storms, making land travel or extended stays a necessity. Paul's mention of "wintering with you" (Gk. _paracheimázō_) reflects this reality, indicating a willingness to commit significant time to the Corinthian church, not just a brief visit. The concept of "bringing on one's journey" (Gk. _propémpō_) was a common cultural practice, signifying not just a farewell but providing provisions, financial support, and sometimes even an escort for the traveler's next leg. This was a vital form of hospitality and support for missionaries, teachers, and public figures in the Greco-Roman world, enabling their continued work.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. It underscores **Apostolic Care and Presence**, demonstrating Paul's deep pastoral heart and his belief in the importance of personal presence for discipleship and church health, beyond mere written instruction. It highlights the theme of **Mutual Support and Interdependence within the Body of Christ**, where the apostle serves the church through teaching and leadership, and the church, in turn, supports the apostle's ongoing mission. This reciprocal relationship is vital for the spread of the gospel, as seen in Paul's instructions regarding financial support for ministers in [Galatians 6:6](/galatians/6-6 "Galatians 6:6 - Sharing with Teachers"). Furthermore, Paul's practical consideration of travel seasons reveals a theme of **Strategic Planning and Prudence in Ministry**, emphasizing that spiritual work also requires practical wisdom and adaptation to circumstances, a principle echoed in his broader ministry approach, such as his commitment to being "all things to all people" in [1 Corinthians 9:22](/1_corinthians/9-22 "1 Corinthians 9:22 - Paul's Adaptability in Ministry").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **abide (Greek, _paraménō_):** This word (G3887) means "to stay near, i.e., remain (literally, tarry; or figuratively, be permanent, persevere)." Paul's use of this term suggests a desire for a prolonged, perhaps even indefinite, stay with the Corinthians, indicating more than a fleeting visit. It implies a deeper engagement and commitment to their spiritual well-being.
* **winter (Greek, _paracheimázō_):** This verb (G3914) specifically means "to winter near, i.e., stay with over the rainy season." It highlights the practical realities of ancient travel, where sea voyages were often suspended during the colder, stormier months. Paul's willingness to "winter" with them underscores his dedication and adaptability, prioritizing sustained fellowship and teaching over swift movement.
* **bring me on my journey (Greek, _propémpō_):** This term (G4311) means "to send forward, i.e., escort or aid in travel." It goes beyond a simple farewell, encompassing the provision of necessary resources—financial support, supplies, and possibly even companionship—to ensure a safe and successful onward journey for the traveler. It signifies active, tangible support for the ongoing work of ministry.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you":** Paul expresses a contingent plan, indicating a strong possibility of an extended stay. The phrase "it may be" (Gk. _tynchánō_) suggests flexibility but also a genuine desire. His intention to "abide" and "winter" points to a commitment to spend a significant period, perhaps several months, with the Corinthian church, allowing for deeper teaching, discipleship, and problem-solving.
* **"that ye may bring me on my journey":** This clause reveals the purpose of Paul's extended stay and his expectation of the Corinthians. The phrase "bring me on my journey" (Gk. _propémpō_) implies that the Corinthians would provide the necessary practical support—financial, logistical, and perhaps even companionship—for Paul's next leg of travel. This was a common and expected act of hospitality and support for traveling ministers in the ancient world.
* **"whithersoever I go":** This final phrase emphasizes the open-ended nature of Paul's future missionary endeavors. He doesn't specify his next destination, leaving it open to divine leading and practical considerations. It signifies his continuous commitment to the spread of the gospel beyond Corinth, relying on the church's support to facilitate these future missions.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Anticipation** by outlining future travel plans, creating a sense of expectation for Paul's arrival and the subsequent continuation of his ministry. The phrase "it may be" introduces an element of **Contingency**, reflecting the practical uncertainties and divine leading inherent in apostolic journeys. The use of **Synecdoche** is present in "winter with you," where "winter" stands for the entire cold season and the extended period of stay it necessitates. Finally, the practical request to "bring me on my journey" serves as a form of **Metonymy**, where the act of sending off represents the broader concept of providing comprehensive support for a traveler's needs.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Corinthians 16:6 beautifully illustrates the symbiotic relationship between an apostle and the churches he serves, a model for ministry support that transcends time. Paul, as a spiritual father, pours himself out for the Corinthians, and in return, he expects their practical support to enable his continued gospel work. This mutual dependence underscores the biblical principle that those who minister the Word are worthy of support, allowing them to devote themselves fully to their calling without being hindered by material concerns. It highlights the church's vital role in facilitating the spread of the gospel by caring for its laborers.

* [Romans 15:24](/romans/15-24 "Romans 15:24 - Paul's Desire for Roman Support")
* [3 John 1:6-8](/3_john/1-6-8 "3 John 1:6-8 - Supporting Those Who Go Out for the Name")
* [Philippians 4:15-16](/philippians/4-15-16 "Philippians 4:15-16 - Philippians' Generous Support of Paul")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's flexible yet purposeful travel plans in 1 Corinthians 16:6 offer profound lessons for contemporary believers and churches. His willingness to "abide" and "winter" with the Corinthians underscores the invaluable nature of personal presence and sustained relational investment in ministry. In an age of rapid communication, this verse reminds us that genuine discipleship and robust church communities are often built through shared time, intentional fellowship, and face-to-face interaction. Furthermore, Paul's expectation of being "brought on his journey" challenges us to consider our responsibility to support those who dedicate their lives to gospel ministry, whether local pastors, global missionaries, or itinerant teachers. This support is not merely a charitable act but a partnership in the Kingdom, enabling the spread of God's Word. It calls us to practice radical hospitality, generosity, and practical care for those who serve, recognizing that their effectiveness is often tied to the tangible support of the body of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's willingness to "abide" and "winter" with the Corinthians challenge our modern approaches to ministry, which often prioritize efficiency over sustained presence?**
* **In what practical ways can our church or individual lives "bring on their journey" those who are serving in full-time ministry, both locally and globally?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in our own service to God, even amidst uncertainties?**
* **How can we cultivate a culture of generous hospitality and support for gospel workers within our communities, reflecting the early church's example?**

### FAQ
**What does "bring me on my journey" mean in the context of Paul's travels?**

Answer: The phrase "bring me on my journey" (Greek: _propémpō_) signifies more than a simple farewell. In the ancient world, it was a common and expected act of hospitality and support for travelers, especially those engaged in public service or ministry. It encompassed providing for the traveler's needs, which could include financial assistance, provisions for the road, arranging lodging, and sometimes even providing an escort for safety and companionship. For Paul, it meant the Corinthian church would actively facilitate his onward missionary work by ensuring he had the necessary resources to continue his travels and ministry effectively. This practice is also seen in [Romans 15:24](/romans/15-24 "Paul's Request for Support to Spain") where Paul asks the Roman church to "help me on my way to Spain."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Corinthians 16:6 primarily details Paul's practical ministry plans and the church's role in supporting them, it implicitly points to the ultimate pattern of Christ's own ministry and the ongoing mission of His body. Jesus, the Son of God, "abided" among humanity, not for a winter, but for a lifetime, fully embodying God with us, Immanuel ([Matthew 1:23](/matthew/1-23 "Matthew 1:23 - Immanuel, God with Us")). His earthly ministry was characterized by personal presence, teaching, and healing, culminating in His sacrificial death and resurrection. Just as Paul relied on the church's practical support to "go" and spread the gospel, Christ commissioned His disciples to "go into all the world" ([Mark 16:15](/mark/16-15 "Mark 16:15 - The Great Commission")) and promised to be with them always, even to the end of the age ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise of Presence")). The church's support for gospel workers, as exemplified in this verse, is therefore an extension of Christ's own mission, enabling His ongoing work through His Spirit-empowered body. By supporting those who proclaim the good news, believers participate in the very mission of God to reconcile the world to Himself, a mission initiated and perfectly fulfilled by Christ Himself, the ultimate missionary who was sent by the Father ([John 3:16-17](/john/3-16-17 "John 3:16-17 - God So Loved the World")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

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: