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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 16:5–9.
In this passage the apostle notifies and explains his purpose of visiting them, concerning which, observe, 1. His purpose: he intended to pass out of Asia, where he now was (vide Co1 16:8, Co1 16:19) and to go through Macedonia into Achaia, where Corinth was, and to stay some time with them, and perhaps the winter, Co1 16:5, Co1 16:6. He had long laboured in this church, and done much good among them, and had his heart set upon doing much more (if God saw fit), and therefore he had it in his thoughts to see them, and stay with them. Note, The heart of a truly Christian minister must be much towards that people among whom he has long laboured, and with remarkable success. No wonder that Paul was willing to see Corinth and stay with them as long as the other duties of his office would permit. Though some among this people despised him, and made a faction against him, doubtless there were many who loved him tenderly, and paid him all the respect due to an apostle and their spiritual father. And is it any wonder that he should be willing to visit them, and stay with them? And as to the rest, who now manifested great disrespect, he might hope to reduce them to a better temper, and thereby rectify what was out of order in the church, by staying among them for some time. It is plain that he hoped for some good effect, because he says he intended to stay, that they might bring him on his journey whithersoever he went (Co1 16:6); not that they might accompany him a little way on the road, but expedite and furnish him for his journey, help and encourage him to it, and provide him for it. He is to be understood of being brought forward in his journey after a godly sort (as it is expressed, Jo3 1:6), so that nothing might be wanting to him, as he himself speaks, Tit 3:13. His stay among them, he hoped, would cure their factious humour, and reconcile them to himself and their duty. Note, It was a just reason for an apostle to make his abode in a place that he had a prospect of doing good. 2. His excuse for not seeing them now, because it would be only by the way (Co1 16:7), en parodō - in transitu - en passant: it would only be a transient visit. He would not see them because he could not stay with them. Such a visit would give neither him nor them any satisfaction or advantage; it would rather raise the appetite than regale it, rather heighten their desires of being together than satisfy them. He loved them so much that he longed for an opportunity to stay with them, take up his abode among them for some length of time. This would be more pleasing to himself, and more serviceable to them, than a cursory visit in his way; and therefore he would not see them now, but another time, when he could tarry longer. 3. We have the limitation of this purpose: I trust to tarry awhile with you, if the Lord permit, Co1 16:7. Though the apostles wrote under inspiration, they did not know thereby how God would dispose of them. Paul had a purpose of coming to Corinth, and staying there, and hoped to do good thereby. This was not a purpose proceeding from any extraordinary motion or impulse of the Spirit of God; it was not the effect of inspiration; for had it been such he could not have spoken of it in this manner. A purpose formed thus in him must have been the purpose of God, signified to him by his Spirit; and could he say he would come to Corinth upon this view only, if God permit, that is, that he would execute God's own purpose concerning himself, with God's permission? It is to be understood then of a common purpose, formed in his own spirit. And concerning all our purposes it is fit we should say, "We will execute them if the Lord permit." Note, All our purposes must be made with submission to the divine providence. We should say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this and that, Jam 4:15. It is not in us to effect our own designs, without the divine leave. It is by God's power and permission, and under his direction, that we must do every thing. Heathens have concurred in acknowledging this concern of Providence in all our actions and concerns; surely we should readily own it, and frequently and seriously attend to it. 4. We have his purpose expressed of staying at Ephesus for the present. He says he would stay there till pentecost, Co1 16:8. It is very probable that at the time of writing this epistle he was in Ephesus, from this passage, compared with Co1 16:19, where he says, The churches of Asia salute you. A proper salutation from Ephesus, but hardly so proper had he been at Philippi, as the subscription to this epistle in our common copies has it. "The churches of Macedonia salute you" had been much more properly inserted in the close of a letter from Philippi, than the other. But, 5. We have the reason given for his staying at Ephesus for the present: Because a great door, and effectual, was opened to him, and there were many adversaries, Co1 16:9. A great door and effectual was opened to him; many were prepared to receive the gospel at Ephesus, and God gave him great success among them; he had brought over many to Christ, and he had great hope of bringing over many more. For this reason he determined to stay awhile at Ephesus. Note, Success, and a fair prospect of more, was a just reason to determine an apostle to stay and labour in a particular place. And there were many adversaries, because a great door, and an effectual, was opened. Note, Great success in the work of the gospel commonly creates many enemies. The devil opposes those most, and makes them most trouble, who most heartily and successfully set themselves to destroy his kingdom. There were many adversaries; and therefore the apostle determined to stay. Some think he alludes in this passage to the custom of the Roman Circus, and the doors of it, at which the charioteers were to enter, as their antagonists did at the opposite doors. True courage is whetted by opposition; and it is no wonder that the Christian courage of the apostle should be animated by the zeal of his adversaries. They were bent to ruin him, and prevent the effect of his ministry at Ephesus; and should he at this time desert his station, and disgrace his character and doctrine? No, the opposition of adversaries only animated his zeal. He was in nothing daunted by his adversaries; but the more they raged and opposed the more he exerted himself. Should such a man as he flee? Note, Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but only enkindle their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. Indeed, to labour in vain is heartless and discouraging. This damps the spirits, and breaks the heart. But success will give life and vigour to a minister, though enemies rage, and blaspheme, and persecute. It is not the opposition of enemies, but the hardness and obstinacy of his hearers, and the backslidings and revolt of professors, that damp a faithful minister, and break his heart.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
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Knowing that he has a lot to do in Corinth, Paul does not want to pass through on his way somewhere else but to spend time with them when he comes.
"For I do not wish to see you now by the way; for I hope to tarry awhile with you, if the Lord permit."
Now these things he said, both to signify his love and also to terrify the sinners, not however openly, but with outward demonstration of friendship.
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Summary
In the Apostle Paul communicates his provisional travel plans to the church in Corinth, expressing his desire for a substantial, rather than fleeting, visit. This verse not only reveals the practicalities of apostolic ministry but also profoundly underscores Paul's theological conviction concerning divine sovereignty, demonstrating that even his most earnest intentions and strategic plans were always held in humble submission to the ultimate will and timing of God.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the concluding remarks of Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians, following his extensive theological and practical instructions on various issues plaguing the church. Having addressed divisions, immorality, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection, Paul transitions to practical matters, including the collection for the saints in Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 16:1-4) and his future travel itinerary. He had previously indicated his intention to pass through Macedonia before arriving in Corinth (1 Corinthians 16:5), and here he clarifies that he does not wish for a brief, opportunistic encounter "by the way," but rather a prolonged stay to foster deeper fellowship and provide more thorough instruction. This personal update serves to reinforce his pastoral care and transparency with the Corinthian believers, demonstrating his commitment to their spiritual well-being beyond the written word.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient world, travel was arduous, time-consuming, and often dangerous. Communication over long distances was slow and unreliable, making personal visits by apostles like Paul invaluable for teaching, encouragement, and resolving disputes within nascent Christian communities. Paul's itineraries were not merely personal preferences but strategic decisions aimed at spreading the Gospel and nurturing churches. The phrase "by the way" (en parodō) suggests a quick stopover, perhaps while en route to another destination, which would have been a common mode of travel for itinerant teachers. However, Paul's desire to "tarry a while" (epimenō) signifies a commitment to an extended, intentional period of ministry. This highlights the importance of sustained, personal presence in early church leadership, where face-to-face interaction was paramount for building relationships and imparting foundational truths in a culture reliant on oral tradition and personal mentorship.
Key Themes
The verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 1 Corinthians and Pauline theology. Foremost is the theme of Divine Sovereignty and Human Dependence. Paul's explicit "if the Lord permit" is a profound theological statement, echoing the principle found in James 4:13-15 that human plans, no matter how well-conceived, are ultimately subject to God's sovereign will. This theme pervades Paul's ministry, as seen in his prayer for a prosperous journey to Rome in Romans 1:10 and his acknowledgment of God's leading in his missionary journeys throughout Acts. Another key theme is Pastoral Care and Intentional Ministry. Paul's preference for a longer stay demonstrates his deep love and commitment to the Corinthian church, prioritizing quality, in-depth engagement over superficial contact. This reflects his consistent model of discipleship, where he sought to "build up" believers (1 Corinthians 14:12) through sustained teaching and personal presence, rather than merely passing through. Finally, the verse subtly underscores the theme of Responsible Planning with Humble Submission. Paul was a meticulous strategist for the Gospel, but his plans were never rigid; they were always held loosely, acknowledging God's ultimate authority and wisdom in directing his steps. This balance between diligent planning and humble submission is a hallmark of godly leadership.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word signifies a determination or active option arising from subjective impulse, indicating a choice or preference. Here, Paul expresses his strong personal desire or intention not to make a brief stop but to stay longer. It's not a mere passive wish but an active inclination.
Meaning "to expect or confide," this term conveys Paul's hope or confident expectation regarding his extended stay. It implies a reliance, not on his own ability to execute the plan, but on the potential for it to materialize, contingent upon divine allowance.
Derived from "to turn over," this word means "to allow," "to permit," or "to grant leave." It is crucial as it highlights that Paul's ability to fulfill his desire is entirely dependent on God's gracious authorization or permission, not on his own strength, foresight, or schedule.
Verse Breakdown
"For I will not see you now by the way"
Paul states his clear intention to avoid a fleeting, superficial visit. The phrase "by the way" (Greek: en parodō) indicates a quick, passing encounter, perhaps while en route to another destination. Paul desires more than a mere stopover; he wants a substantial period of time with the Corinthians. This reveals his pastoral heart and his commitment to deep, meaningful engagement rather than perfunctory visits.
"but I trust to tarry a while with you"
In contrast to a brief encounter, Paul expresses his confident hope (elpízō) of an extended stay (epimenō, "to remain" or "to persevere"). This signifies his desire to spend a significant amount of time with them, implying a period sufficient for teaching, fellowship, and addressing their needs comprehensively. His "trust" indicates an expectation rooted in faith, not a certainty independent of God.
"if the Lord permit."
This conditional clause is the theological linchpin of the verse. Paul acknowledges that all his plans, desires, and intentions are ultimately subject to the sovereign will and divine permission (epitrépō) of the Lord (kýrios). This phrase is a humble recognition that human agency operates within the framework of God's overarching plan, underscoring a deep reliance on God's providence for every aspect of life and ministry.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices that enhance its meaning and impact. Apostolic Authority is subtly conveyed through Paul's direct communication of his plans, yet it is immediately tempered by Humility as he submits his intentions to divine will. The use of a Conditional Clause ("if the Lord permit") is a profound theological statement, functioning as a literary and theological pivot that shifts the ultimate authority from human planning to divine sovereignty. This device highlights Paul's consistent theological framework, where human endeavors are always contingent upon God's permissive will. Furthermore, the contrast between "not see you now by the way" and "tarry a while with you" serves as a form of Antithesis, emphasizing Paul's genuine pastoral desire for deep, sustained fellowship over a superficial encounter. This stylistic choice underscores his commitment to the spiritual well-being of the Corinthian church.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 16:7 serves as a timeless theological reminder of the profound interplay between human planning and divine sovereignty. It teaches us that while we are called to be diligent in our endeavors and make wise plans, we must always hold them loosely, recognizing that God's ultimate will and timing supersede our own. This posture of humble submission is not an excuse for passivity but rather an acknowledgment that God is actively involved in directing the steps of His people. It fosters a spirit of prayerful dependence, encouraging believers to seek God's guidance in all decisions and to trust His perfect wisdom, even when our plans are altered or delayed. This verse reinforces the biblical truth that God is the ultimate orchestrator of events, and our greatest peace comes from aligning our will with His.
Reflection and Application
Paul's simple declaration, "if the Lord permit," offers profound wisdom for contemporary believers navigating a world that often prioritizes self-sufficiency and rigid planning. It challenges us to cultivate a posture of humble dependence on God in every aspect of our lives, from daily schedules to long-term career goals and ministry endeavors. While diligence in planning is a virtue, this verse reminds us that true wisdom lies in holding our plans with an open hand, recognizing that God's sovereign will is the ultimate determinant of outcomes. This perspective liberates us from the anxiety of needing to control every detail and invites us into a deeper trust in God's perfect timing and wisdom. It encourages us to pray, "Your will be done," not as a mere formality, but as a genuine surrender of our desires to His greater purpose. Furthermore, Paul's desire to "tarry a while" rather than just pass "by the way" highlights the importance of intentionality and depth in our relationships and ministries, prioritizing quality engagement over superficial interactions.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does "if the Lord permit" mean we shouldn't plan for the future?
No, "if the Lord permit" does not mean Christians should avoid planning for the future. Rather, it encourages a posture of humble submission and dependence on God's will when making plans. Paul himself was a meticulous planner, strategizing his missionary journeys and visits, as seen throughout Acts. The emphasis is not on the absence of planning, but on the recognition that all human plans are ultimately contingent upon God's sovereign permission and direction. It serves as a safeguard against presumption and arrogance, reminding us that our lives and times are in God's hands. As Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps." We plan, but God ultimately guides.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Paul's humble submission to the Lord's permission in his travel plans finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. While Paul, as a human, needed to acknowledge divine sovereignty over his future, Christ, being God incarnate, perfectly embodied and demonstrated absolute submission to the Father's will, even to the point of death. Jesus consistently lived by the principle of "if the Lord permit," not out of uncertainty, but out of perfect obedience and unity with the Father's purpose. His entire earthly mission was defined by doing the will of Him who sent Him, as He declared in John 6:38: "For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me." In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing the agony of the cross, Jesus prayed, "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt" (Matthew 26:39). This ultimate act of surrender to the Father's "permitting" will led to the redemption of humanity. Thus, Paul's aspiration to live under divine permission points us directly to Christ, who is the perfect example of such submission, and through whose sacrificial obedience, we are enabled to live lives surrendered to the Lordship of God, trusting that He, the risen Lord, directs our paths and permits our every step for His glory and our good, just as He promised in Matthew 28:18 that "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth."