1 Corinthians 16:16

That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with [us], and laboureth.

{G2532} That {G2443} ye {G5210} submit yourselves {G5293} unto such {G5108}, and {G2532} to every one {G3956} that helpeth {G4903} with us, and {G2532} laboureth {G2872}.

I urge you to submit yourselves to people like these and to everyone who works and toils with them.

to submit to such as these, and to every fellow worker and laborer.

that ye also be in subjection unto such, and to every one that helpeth in the work and laboreth.

Commentary

1 Corinthians 16:16 is part of Paul's concluding remarks and exhortations to the church in Corinth, found in the final chapter of his first epistle. Following specific instructions regarding the collection for the saints and his travel plans, Paul shifts to commend certain individuals and encourage the Corinthians to honor those who diligently serve.

Context of 1 Corinthians 16:16

This verse directly follows Paul's commendation of the household of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus in 1 Corinthians 16:15. He praises them for their devotion to serving the saints and for refreshing his spirit and that of the Corinthians. Therefore, "such" refers specifically to these faithful individuals and, by extension, to all who exhibit similar dedication and hard work in the ministry. Paul is urging the Corinthian believers to recognize, respect, and cooperate with those who are genuinely investing themselves in the spiritual well-being of the community.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Honoring Dedicated Service: The primary message is the importance of recognizing and submitting to those who faithfully labor for the church. This isn't about blind obedience to human authority, but about respectful cooperation with those God has called and gifted to serve.
  • Partnership in Ministry: The phrase "helpeth with [us], and laboureth" highlights the collaborative nature of Christian ministry. It emphasizes that those who dedicate themselves to serving the body of Christ are vital partners in the work of the Gospel.
  • Mutual Respect and Order: Paul consistently advocates for order and mutual respect within the church (see 1 Corinthians 14:40). Submitting to diligent leaders and servants fosters a healthy, unified environment where the work of God can flourish without unnecessary strife.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "submit yourselves" is hupotassō (ὑποτάσσω). While it can imply military subordination, in this context, it generally denotes a voluntary attitude of cooperation, respect, and support rather than forced submission. It's about aligning oneself with the efforts of others for a common good. The term "laboureth" comes from kopiaō (κοπιάω), which means to toil, work hard, or exert oneself to the point of weariness. This emphasizes the intensive, often tiring, effort involved in serving the church and ministry, underscoring why such individuals deserve honor and support.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse serves as a powerful reminder to appreciate and support those who serve diligently within the local church and broader Christian community. This includes pastors, elders, deacons, ministry leaders, and dedicated volunteers who tirelessly give of their time, energy, and resources. Supporting them can involve:

  • Respecting their leadership and guidance: Where it aligns with biblical principles.
  • Cooperating with their initiatives: Contributing to the overall health and mission of the church.
  • Encouraging them: Recognizing their sacrifices and offering verbal affirmation.
  • Praying for them: Sustaining them in their demanding work.

Just as Paul encouraged the Corinthians to honor those who were "firstfruits" and served with unwavering commitment, modern believers are called to foster a culture of gratitude and partnership with those who faithfully "labour" in the Lord's vineyard. This mutual respect strengthens the body of Christ and enables more effective ministry.

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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 13:17 (6 votes)

    Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable for you.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:12 (6 votes)

    And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

  • 3 John 1:8 (3 votes)

    We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be fellowhelpers to the truth.

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:3 (2 votes)

    Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

  • 1 Corinthians 12:28 (2 votes)

    And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

  • Revelation 2:3 (2 votes)

    And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.

  • Romans 16:12 (2 votes)

    Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.