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Day 17 1 Corinthians 16 1 Corinthians 16:1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 3 And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. 4 And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me. 5 Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia. 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. 7 For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit. 8 But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. 9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries. 10 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he works the work of the Lord, as I also do. 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. 12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time. 13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. 14 Let all your things be done with charity (love). 15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) 16 That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to everyone that helps with us, and labors. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such. 19 The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. 20 All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with a holy kiss. 21 The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. 22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. (The first epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi by Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus and Timotheus.) Closing letters typically have greetings, last thoughts, and future plans in them, with hope to seeing the person they’re writing to in the near future. Paul ended his letter to the church of Corinth with greetings from the people who wrote the letter, as seen in the last verse. Why Paul didn’t write the letters himself and dictated them is unknown. Paul showed his intentions to come to them and stay with them for a period of time. Paul also gave instructions about giving offerings to the church in Jerusalem. History shows the church in Jerusalem was under persecution and unable to take care of their own needs, thus depending on other churches to supply their needs. As Christians, you are often called on to help other churches and missionaries when needs arise due to persecution or lack of funds or the ability to take care of their needs. Oftentimes churches organize mission trips to give the much-needed help to the people in those countries who are severely lacking the most basic needs. When you help those in need, you are obeying Jesus’ command to go to the nations. Not only are you preaching the gospel, you are living the gospel to those in need. Always be willing to help those in need and further the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let’s pray: Father, give me a heart of compassion to help those who need help. Let me go where you send me, and always be a testimony of Your love in my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Copyright © 30 March 2019 by Valerie Routhieaux Image courtesy of Pixabay