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 worketh 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.

15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)

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

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 an 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.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The saints - A more solemn and a more affecting word, than if he had said, the poor.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
But concerning the collectionLuke relates (Acts 11:28) that the prediction of Agabus, foretelling that there would be a famine under Claudius Caesar, gave occasion for alms being collected by the saints, with the view of affording help to the brethren in Jerusalem. For though the Prophet had foretold, that this calamity would be generally prevalent almost throughout the world, yet as they were more heavily oppressed with penury at Jerusalem, and as all the Gentile Churches were bound, if they would not be held guilty of very great ingratitude, to afford aid to that place from which they had received the gospel, every one, consequently, forgetful of self, resolved to afford relief to Jerusalem. That the pressure of want was felt heavily at Jerusalem, appears from the Epistle to the Galatians, (Galatians 2:10,) where Paul relates, that he had been charged by the Apostles to stir up the Gentiles to afford help.Now the Apostles would never have given such a charge, had they not been constrained by necessity. Farther, this passage is an evidence of the truth of what Paul states there also — that he had been careful to exhort the Gentiles to afford help in such a case of necessity. Now, however, he prescribes the method of relief; and that the Corinthians may accede to it the more readily, he mentions that he had already prescribed it to the Churches of Galatia; for they would necessarily be the more influenced by example, as we are wont to feel a natural backwardness to anything that is not ordinarily practiced. Now follows the method — by which he designed to cut off all hinderances and impediments.
McArther Bible Commentary
collection. An offering for destitute believers in the overpopulated, famine-stricken city of Jerusalem (1Co 16:3; see Act 11:28). Paul had previously solicited funds from the churches of Galatia, Macedonia, and Achaia (Rom 15:26; cf. Luk 10:25-37; 2Co 8:1-5; 2Co 9:12-15; Gal 6:10; 1Jn 3:17).
Bible Cross References
Acts 9:13 Acts 16:6 Acts 24:17 Romans 15:25 1 Corinthians 4:17 1 Corinthians 11:34 1 Corinthians 16:15 Galatians 1:2

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Let every one - Not the rich only: let him also that hath little, gladly give of that little. According as he hath been prospered - Increasing his alms as God increases his substance. According to this lowest rule of Christian prudence, if a man when he has or gains one pound give a tenth to God, when he has or gains an hundred he will give the tenth of this also. And yet I show unto you a more excellent way. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Stint yourself to no proportion at all. But lend to God all you can.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
On one of the Sabbaths.The end is this — that they may have their alms ready in time. He therefore exhorts them not to wait till he came, as anything that is done suddenly, and in a bustle, is not done well, but to contribute on the Sabbath what might seem good, and according as every one’s ability might enable — that is, on the day on which they held their sacred assemblies. The clause rendered onone of the Sabbaths, (κατὰ μίαν σαββάτων,) Chrysostom explains to mean —the first Sabbath. In this I do not agree with him; for Paul means rather that they should contribute, one on one Sabbath and another on another; or even each of them every Sabbath, if they chose. For he has an eye, first of all, to convenience, and farther, that the sacred assembly, in which the communion of saints is celebrated, might be an additional spur to them. Nor am I more inclined to admit the view taken by Chrysostom — that the termSabbath is employed here to mean theLord’s day, (Revelation 1:10,) for the probability is, that the Apostles, at the beginning, retained the day that was already in use, but that afterwards, constrained by the superstition of theJews, they set aside that day, and substituted another. Now theLord’s day was made choice of, chiefly because our Lord’sresurrection put an end to the shadows of the law. Hence the day itself puts us in mind of our Christian liberty. We may, however, very readily infer from this passage, that believers have always had a certain day of rest from labor — not as if the worship of God consisted in idleness, but because it is of importance for the common harmony, that a certain day should be appointed for holding sacred assemblies, as they cannot be held every day. For as to Paul’s forbidding elsewhere (Galatians 4:10) that any distinction should be made between one day and another,that must be understood to be with a view to religion,and not with a view to polity or external order.Treasuring upI have preferred to retain the Greekparticiple, as it appeared to me to be more emphatic.For althoughθησανρίζεινmeans tolay up, yet in my opinion, he designed to admonish the Corinthians, that whatever they might contribute for the saints would be their best and safesttreasure. For if a heathen poet could say — “What riches you give away, those alone you shall alwayshave,how much more ought that consideration to have influence among us, who are not dependent on the gratitude of men, but have God to look to, who makes himself a debtor in the room of the poor man, to restore to us one day, with large interest, whatever we give away? (Proverbs 19:17.) Hence this statement of Paul corresponds with that saying of Christ —Lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where it will not be exposed either to thieves, or to moths. (Matthew 6:20.)According as he has prospered.Instead of this the old translation has rendered it,What may seem good to him, misled, no doubt, by the resemblance between the word made use of, and another.Erasmus renders it,What will be convenient.Neither the one nor the other pleased me, for this reason — that the proper signification of the word brings out a meaning that is much more suitable; for it means — togo on prosperously. Hence he calls every one to consider his ability — “Let every one, according as God hath blessed him, lay out upon the poor from his increase.”
McArther Bible Commentary
first day of the week. This shows that the early church met on Sunday (Act 20:7). The point is that giving must occur regularly, not just when one feels generous, particularly led to do so, or instructed to do so for some special purpose (cf. Luk 6:38; cf. 2Co 9:6-7). as he may prosper. No required amount or percentage for giving to the Lord's work is specified in the NT. All giving to the Lord is to be free-will giving and completely discretionary (see Luk 6:38; 2Co 9:6-8). This is not to be confused with the OT required giving of three tithes (see Lev 27:30; Num 18:21-26; Deu 14:28-29; Mal 3:8-10) which totaled about twenty-three percent annually to fund the national government of Israel, take care of public festivals, and provide welfare. Modern parallels to the OT tithe are found in the taxation system of countries (Rom 13:6). Old Testament giving to God was not regulated as to amount (see Exo 25:1-2; Exo 35:21; Exo 36:6; Pro 3:9-10; Pro 11:24).
Bible Cross References
Acts 20:7 2 Corinthians 8:3 2 Corinthians 8:10 2 Corinthians 9:3 2 Corinthians 9:4

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And when I comeAs we are cheerful in giving, when we know for certain, that what we give is well laid out, he points out to the Corinthians a method, by which they may be assured of a good and faithful administration — by selecting approved persons, to whom they may intrust the matter. Nay more, he offers his own services, if desired, which is an evidence that he has the matter at heart.
McArther Bible Commentary
This matter of getting the money to Jerusalem was important enough for Paul to go, if necessary.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:4 2 Corinthians 3:1 2 Corinthians 8:18 2 Corinthians 8:19

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
They shall go with me - To remove any possible suspicion.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:3 1 Corinthians 16:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I pass through Macedonia - I purpose going that way.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
When I shall pass through MacedoniaThe common opinion is, that this espistle was sent from Philippi. Persons coming thence to Corinth by land, required to pass through Macedonia; for that colony is situated in the farthest extremity, towards the Emathian mountains. Paul, it is true, might, instead of going by land, have gone thither by sea, but he was desirous to visit the Macedonian Churches, that he might confirm them in passing. So much for the common opinion.To me, however, it appears more probable, that the epistle was written at Ephesus; for he says a little afterwards, thathe will remain there until Pentecost, (1 Corinthians 16:8); and he salutes the Corinthians, not in the name of the Philippians, but of theAsiatics. (1 Corinthians 16:19.)Besides, in the second epistle he explicitly states, that, after he had sent away this epistle, he passed over into Macedonia. (2 Corinthians 2:13.) Now after passing through Macedonia, he would be at a distance from Ephesus, and in the neighborhood of Achaia. Hence I have no doubt that he was at Ephesus at that time:thence he could sail by a straight course to Achaia. For visiting Macedonia, a long circuit was needed, and a more disagreeable route. Accordingly he lets them know that he will not come to them by a direct course, as he required togo through MacedoniaTo the Corinthians, however, he promises something farther — that he would make a longer stay with themBy this he shows his affection towards them. For what reason had he for delay, except that he was concerned as to their welfare? On the other hand, he lets them know how fully assured he is of their affection towards him in return, by taking it, as it were, for granted that he would be conducted forward by them in the way of kindness; for he says this fromconfidence in their friendship.After saying everything, however, he subjoins this limitation — if the Lord permitWith this reservation, saints ought to follow up all their plans and deliberations; for it is an instance of great rashness to undertake and determine many things for the future, while we have not even a moment in our power. The main thing indeed is, that, in the inward affection of the mind, we submit to God and his providence, whatever we resolve upon;but atthe same time, it is becoming that we should accustom ourselves to such forms of expression, that whenever we have to do with what is future we may make everything depend on the divine will.
McArther Bible Commentary
At the end of a three-year stay in Ephesus, Paul wrote his letter and probably gave it to Timothy to deliver (1Co 16:10). Paul originally planned to follow Timothy a short while after (1Co 4:19), visiting Corinth on the way to and from Macedonia (2Co 1:15-16). He had to change his plan and visit only after a longer stay in Ephesus (1Co 16:8), then on to Corinth after Macedonia, to stay for a while (1Co 16:6-7).
Bible Cross References
Acts 19:21 Romans 15:26 1 Corinthians 4:19 1 Corinthians 16:4 2 Corinthians 1:16

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
Bible Cross References
Acts 15:3 1 Corinthians 16:11 2 Corinthians 1:16

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I will not see you now - Not till I have been in Macedonia.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 3:15 Acts 18:21 1 Corinthians 4:19 2 Corinthians 1:15

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I will stay at Ephesus - Where he was at this time.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
I will remain.From this statement I have argued above, that this epistle was sent from Ephesus, rather than from Philippi. For the probability is, that the Apostle speaks of the place in which he was at the time, and not of a place, in going to which he would require to make a long circuit; and farther, in passing through Macedonia,it would have been necessary to leave Corinth when already in the neighborhood of it, and cross the sea in order to reach Ephesus. He accordingly tells them beforehand that he willremain at Ephesus until Pentecost, adding the reason — in order that they may wait for him the more patiently. Erasmus has preferred to render it —until the fiftieth day, influenced by frivolous conjectures rather than by any solid argument. He objects, that there was as yet no day of Pentecost appointed among Christians, as it is now celebrated; and this I grant. He says, that it ought not to be understood as referring to the Jewish solemnity, because in various instances he annuls and condemns the superstitious observance of days. (Galatians 4:10;Romans 14:5;Colossians 2:16, 17.) I do not concede to him, however, that Paul celebrated that day at Ephesus from being influenced by a superstitious regard to the day, but because there would be a larger assembly at that time, and he hoped that, in that way, an opportunity would be presented to him of propagating the gospel. Thus, when he was hastening forward to Jerusalem, he assigned as the reason of his haste,that he might arrive there at Pentecost, (Acts 20:16;) but while others presented themselves there for the purpose of sacrificing according to the ritual of the law, he himself had another object in view — that his ministry might be the more useful in proportion to the largeness of the attendance. It were, however, an excessively poor meaning to understand Paul here as simply specifying fifty days. Besides, when he expressly saysτὴν πεντηκοστήν (the Pentecost,) he cannot but be understood as speaking of a particular day. As to this festival, seeLeviticus 23:16
Bible Cross References
Acts 2:1 Acts 18:19 Acts 18:21 Acts 19:1 Acts 20:16 1 Corinthians 15:32

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
A collection for the poor at Jerusalem.
The good examples of other Christians and churches should rouse us. It is good to lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world, should be rich in good works, (1 Timothy 6:17,18). The diligent hand will not make rich, without the Divine blessing, (Proverbs 10:4,22). And what more proper to stir us up to charity to the people and children of God, than to look at all we have as his gift? Works of mercy are real fruits of true love to God, and are therefore proper services on his own day. Ministers are doing their proper business, when putting forward, or helping works of charity. The heart of a Christian minister must be towards the people among whom he has laboured long, and with success. All our purposes must be made with submission to the Divine providence, (James 4:15). Adversaries and opposition do not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but warm their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage. A faithful minister is more discouraged by the hardness of his hearers' hearts, and the backslidings of professors, than by the enemies' attempts.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A great door - As to the number of hearers. And effectual - As to the effects wrought upon them. And there are many adversaries - As there must always be where Satan's kingdom shakes. This was another reason for his staying there.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For a great and effectual door is opened to me. He assigns two reasons for remaining for a longer time at Ephesus — 1st, Because an opportunity is afforded him there of furthering the gospel; and 2dly, Because, in consequence of the great number ofadversaries that were there, his presence was particularly required. “I shall do much good by prolonging my stay here for a little while, and were I absent, Satan would do much injury.” In the first clause, he makes use of a metaphor that is quite in common use, when he employs the termdoor as meaningan opportunity. For the Lord opened up a way for him for the furtherance of the gospel. He calls this agreat door, because he could gain many. He calls iteffectual, inasmuch as the Lord blessed his labor, and rendered his doctrineeffectual by the power of His Spirit. We see, then, how this holy mansought everywhere Christ’s glory, and did not select a place with a view to his own convenience or his own pleasure; but simply looked to this —where he might do most good, and serve his Lord with most abundant fruit; and in addition to this, he did not merely not shrink back from hardships, but presented himself, of his own accord, where he saw that he would have to contend more keenly, and with greater difficulty. For the reason why heremainedwas, thatmany adversarieswere at hand; and the better equipped he was for enduring their assault, he required to be so much the better prepared, and the more resolute.
McArther Bible Commentary
many adversaries. Perhaps no NT church had such fierce opposition as the one in Ephesus (see 2Co 1:8-10 where Paul described his experience in Ephesus; cf. Act 19:1-21). In spite of that opposition, the door for the gospel was open wide (cf. 2Co 2:12-13 where Paul also had an open door, but no heart to remain and preach) and Paul stayed. At the end of the experience of opposition described in 2Co 1:8-10, he wrote 1 Corinthians.
Bible Cross References
Acts 14:27 Acts 19:9 2 Corinthians 1:6 James 5:16

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Timothy and Apollos commended.
Timothy came to do the work of the Lord. Therefore to vex his spirit, would be to grieve the Holy Spirit; to despise him, would be to despise Him that sent him. Those who work the work of the Lord, should be treated with tenderness and respect. Faithful ministers will not be jealous of each other. It becomes the ministers of the gospel to show concern for each other's reputation and usefulness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Without fear - Of any one's despising him for his youth. For he worketh the work of the Lord - The true ground of reverence to pastors. Those who do so, none ought to despise.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
But if Timothy come.He speaks as if he were not as yet certain as to his coming. Now he charges them as to Timothy, so that he may be with them in safety — not as though he were in danger of his life among them, but because he would have enemies of Christto oppose him. He wishes, therefore, that they should carefully take heed that no injury be done to him.He adds the reason — for he worketh the work of the LordHence we infer, that the Church of Christ ought to be concerned for the preservation of the lives of ministers. And assuredly, it is reasonable, that, in proportion as an individual is endowed with superior gifts for the edification of believers, and applies himself to it the more strenuously, his life ought to be so much dearer to us.The clause — as I also do, is made use of, either to express hisexcellence, or simply to point out the similarity as to office, inasmuch as both labored in the word.
McArther Bible Commentary
Timothy. Paul had sent him with Erastus to Macedonia (Act 19:22) and then he was to travel to Corinth, perhaps to carry this epistle (1Co 4:17). without fear. I.e., of intimidation or frustration by believers in Corinth.
Bible Cross References
Acts 16:1 1 Corinthians 4:17 1 Corinthians 15:58 2 Corinthians 1:1 Philippians 2:20 Philippians 2:22

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Timothy and Apollos commended.
Timothy came to do the work of the Lord. Therefore to vex his spirit, would be to grieve the Holy Spirit; to despise him, would be to despise Him that sent him. Those who work the work of the Lord, should be treated with tenderness and respect. Faithful ministers will not be jealous of each other. It becomes the ministers of the gospel to show concern for each other's reputation and usefulness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I look for him with the brethren - That accompany him.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Let no man, therefore, despise himHere we have asecond charge,that they may not despise him — perhaps because he was as yet of a youthful age, which usually draws forth less respect. He wishes them, therefore, to take care, that there be no hinderance in the way of this faithful minister of Christ being held in due esteem — unless, perhaps, it be that Paul reckoned this very thing to be an evidence of contempt, if they were not concerned, as it became them to be, in reference to his life. This injunction, however, appears to include something farther, that they should not undervalue Timothy, from ignorance of his worth.In the third place, he charges them toconduct him forward in peace, or, in other words,safe from all harm, forpeace here means safety.
Bible Cross References
Acts 15:3 Acts 15:33 1 Corinthians 16:6 2 Corinthians 1:16 1 Timothy 4:12 Titus 2:15

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Timothy and Apollos commended.
Timothy came to do the work of the Lord. Therefore to vex his spirit, would be to grieve the Holy Spirit; to despise him, would be to despise Him that sent him. Those who work the work of the Lord, should be treated with tenderness and respect. Faithful ministers will not be jealous of each other. It becomes the ministers of the gospel to show concern for each other's reputation and usefulness.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I besought him much - To come to you. With the brethren - Who were then going to Corinth. Yet he was by no means willing to come now - Perhaps lest his coming should increase the divisions among them.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
As to our brother Apollos.He had succeeded Paul in the work of building up the Corinthians; and hence he has in previous passages ascribed to him the office ofwatering. (1 Corinthians 3:6, andActs 19:1.) He now states a reason why he does not come with the others, and he states the reason of this, in order that the Corinthians may not suspect that he had been hindered by him. For the better he was known by them, they were so much the more favourably disposed towards him, and they would be the more ready to conjecture, that matters had been designedly contrived, that he should not go to them, inconsequence of offense having been taken.They might, at least, be prepared to inquire among themselves: “Why has he sent these persons to us rather than Apollos?” He answers, that it was not owing to him, inasmuch as heentreated him; but he promises that hewill come as soon as he has opportunity.
McArther Bible Commentary
Apollos. See note on Act 18:24. Paul felt Apollos should accompany the other brothers, Timothy and Erastus, to Corinth. Apollos refused, staying in Ephesus longer. Paul respected his convictions.
Bible Cross References
Acts 18:24 Acts 19:1 1 Corinthians 1:12 1 Corinthians 3:5 Titus 3:13

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortation to watchfulness in faith and love.
A Christian is always in danger, therefore should ever be on the watch. He should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert or give it up. By this faith alone he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation. Christians should be careful that charity not only reigns in their hearts, but shines in their lives. There is a great difference between Christian firmness and feverish warmth and transport. The apostle gave particular directions as to some who served the cause of Christ among them. Those who serve the saints, those who desire the honour of the churches, and to remove reproaches from them, are to be thought much of, and loved. They should willingly acknowledge the worth of such, and all who laboured with or helped the apostle.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
To conclude. Watch ye - Against all your seen and unseen enemies. Stand fast in the faith - Seeing and trusting him that is invisible. Acquit yourselves like men - With courage and patience. Be strong - To do and suffer all his will.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Watch ye. A short exhortation, but of great weight. He exhorts them towatch, in order that Satan may not oppress them, finding them off their guard. For as the warfare is incessant, thewatching requires to be incessant too. Now watchfulness of spirit is this — when, free and disentangled from earthly cares, we meditate on the things of God. For as the body is weighed down bysurfeiting and drunkenness, (Luke 21:34,) so as to be fit for nothing, so the cares and lusts of the world, idleness or carelessness, are like a spiritual surfeiting that overpowers the mind.The second thing is that theypersevere in the faith, or that they hold fast the faith, so as tostand firm; because that is the foundation on which we rest. It is certain, however, that he points out the means of perseverance — by resting upon God with a firm faith.In the third exhortation, which is much of the same nature, he stirs them up to manly fortitude. And, as we are naturally weak, he exhorts themfourthly to strengthen themselves, or gather strength. For where we render itbe strong, Paul makes use of only one word, which is equivalent tostrengthen yourselves.
McArther Bible Commentary
Paul gives five final commands. The Corinthians are to be alert, firm, mature, strong, and loving.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 4:9 2 Samuel 10:12 Psalm 31:24 Matthew 24:42 1 Corinthians 15:1 Galatians 5:1 Ephesians 3:16 Ephesians 6:10 Philippians 1:27 Philippians 4:1 Colossians 1:11 1 Thessalonians 3:8 2 Thessalonians 2:15

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortation to watchfulness in faith and love.
A Christian is always in danger, therefore should ever be on the watch. He should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert or give it up. By this faith alone he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation. Christians should be careful that charity not only reigns in their hearts, but shines in their lives. There is a great difference between Christian firmness and feverish warmth and transport. The apostle gave particular directions as to some who served the cause of Christ among them. Those who serve the saints, those who desire the honour of the churches, and to remove reproaches from them, are to be thought much of, and loved. They should willingly acknowledge the worth of such, and all who laboured with or helped the apostle.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Let all your things be done in loveAgain he repeats what is the rule in all those transactions, in which we have dealings with one another. He wishes, then, thatlove shall be the directress; because the Corinthians erred chiefly in this respect — that every one looked to himself without caring for others.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 14:1 1 Corinthians 16:15

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortation to watchfulness in faith and love.
A Christian is always in danger, therefore should ever be on the watch. He should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert or give it up. By this faith alone he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation. Christians should be careful that charity not only reigns in their hearts, but shines in their lives. There is a great difference between Christian firmness and feverish warmth and transport. The apostle gave particular directions as to some who served the cause of Christ among them. Those who serve the saints, those who desire the honour of the churches, and to remove reproaches from them, are to be thought much of, and loved. They should willingly acknowledge the worth of such, and all who laboured with or helped the apostle.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The first fruits of Achaia - The first converts in that province.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Ye know the house of StephanasWe know, from daily experience, of what advantage it is, that those should have the highest authority, whom God has adorned with the most distinguished gifts. Accordingly, if we wish to secure the welfare of the Church, let us always take care that honor be conferred upon the good: let their counsels have the greatest weight; let others give way to them, and allow themselves to be governed by their prudence. This Paul does in this instance, when admonishing the Corinthians to show respect to thehouse of Stephanas. Some manuscripts add,and Fortunatus.For God manifests himself to us when he shows us the gifts of his Spirit. Hence, if we would not appear to be despisers of God, let us voluntarilysubmit ourselves to those, on whom God has conferred superior gifts.Now, that they may be the more inclined to put honor upon that house, (for as to the other, it appears to me to be, in this place at least, a spurious addition,) he reminds them that they were thefirst-fruits of Achaia, that is, that the household of Stephanas were the first that had embraced the gospel. Not indeed as though the first in order of time were in every case superior to the others, but where there is perseverance along with this, it is with good reason, that honor is conferred upon those, who have in a manner paved the way for the gospel by promptitude of faith. It must be observed, however, that he dignifies with this honorable title those, who had consecrated to believers their services and resources. For the same reason, he bestows commendation a little afterwards upon Fortunatus and Achaicus, that, in proportion to a man’s superiority of excellence,he might be held so much the more in esteem, that he might be able to do the more good. Farther, in order that the Corinthians may be the more disposed to love them, he says, thatwhat had been wantingon the part of their entire Churchhad been compensated for by their vicarious services.
McArther Bible Commentary
firstfruits. The members of the household of Stephanas were among the first converts in Corinth, which is located in Achaia, the southern province of Greece. Stephanas was one of the Corinthian believers whom Paul baptized personally (1Co 1:16), and was visiting with Paul in Ephesus at the time this epistle was written. With Fortunatus and Achaicus (1Co 16:17), he probably delivered the earlier letter from Corinth mentioned in 1Co 7:1 (see note there).
Bible Cross References
Acts 18:12 Romans 12:13 Romans 15:31 Romans 16:5 1 Corinthians 1:16 1 Corinthians 16:1

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortation to watchfulness in faith and love.
A Christian is always in danger, therefore should ever be on the watch. He should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert or give it up. By this faith alone he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation. Christians should be careful that charity not only reigns in their hearts, but shines in their lives. There is a great difference between Christian firmness and feverish warmth and transport. The apostle gave particular directions as to some who served the cause of Christ among them. Those who serve the saints, those who desire the honour of the churches, and to remove reproaches from them, are to be thought much of, and loved. They should willingly acknowledge the worth of such, and all who laboured with or helped the apostle.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
That ye also - In your turn. Submit to such - So repaying their free service. And to every one that worketh with us and laboureth - That labours in the gospel either with or without a fellow - labourer.
Bible Cross References
Ecclesiastes 1:3 1 Thessalonians 5:12 Hebrews 13:17 Hebrews 13:24

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortation to watchfulness in faith and love.
A Christian is always in danger, therefore should ever be on the watch. He should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert or give it up. By this faith alone he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation. Christians should be careful that charity not only reigns in their hearts, but shines in their lives. There is a great difference between Christian firmness and feverish warmth and transport. The apostle gave particular directions as to some who served the cause of Christ among them. Those who serve the saints, those who desire the honour of the churches, and to remove reproaches from them, are to be thought much of, and loved. They should willingly acknowledge the worth of such, and all who laboured with or helped the apostle.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaiacus - Who were now returned to Corinth but the joy which their arrival had occasioned remained still in his heart. They have supplied what was wanting on your part - They have performed the offices of love, which you could not, by reason of your absence.
McArther Bible Commentary
Paul was glad about the arrival of his three friends in Ephesus who went there to be with him (cf. Pro 25:25). The Corinthians were to give those men respect for their service to the Lord (cf. 1Th 5:12-13).
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 1:16 2 Corinthians 7:6 2 Corinthians 11:9 Philippians 2:30

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Exhortation to watchfulness in faith and love.
A Christian is always in danger, therefore should ever be on the watch. He should be fixed in the faith of the gospel, and never desert or give it up. By this faith alone he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of temptation. Christians should be careful that charity not only reigns in their hearts, but shines in their lives. There is a great difference between Christian firmness and feverish warmth and transport. The apostle gave particular directions as to some who served the cause of Christ among them. Those who serve the saints, those who desire the honour of the churches, and to remove reproaches from them, are to be thought much of, and loved. They should willingly acknowledge the worth of such, and all who laboured with or helped the apostle.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For they have refreshed my spirit and yours - Inasmuch as you share in my comfort. Such therefore acknowledge - With suitable love and respect.
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 7:13 Philippians 2:29 1 Thessalonians 5:12 Philemon 1:7 Philemon 1:20

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christian salutations.
Christianity by no means destroys civility. Religion should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those give a false idea of religion, and reproach it, who would take encouragement from it to be sour and morose. And Christian salutations are not mere empty compliments; but are real expressions of good-will to others, and commend them to the Divine grace and blessing. Every Christian family should be as a Christian church. Wherever two or three are gathered together in the name of Christ, and he is among them, there is a church. Here is a solemn warning. Many who have Christ's name much in their mouths, have no true love to him in their hearts. None love him in truth, who do not love his laws, and keep his commandments. Many are Christians in name, who do not love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. Such are separated from the people of God, and the favour of God. Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ, must perish without remedy. Let us not rest in any religious profession where there is not the love of Christ, earnest desires for his salvation, gratitude for his mercies, and obedience to his commandments. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has in it all that is good, for time and for eternity. To wish that our friends may have this grace with them, is wishing them the utmost good. And this we should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish them nothing greater, and we should wish them nothing less. True Christianity makes us wish those whom we love, the blessings of both worlds; this is meant in wishing the grace of Christ to be with them. The apostle had dealt plainly with the Corinthians, and told them of their faults with just severity; but he parts in love, and with a solemn profession of his love to them for Christ's sake. May our love be with all who are in Christ Jesus. Let us try whether all things appear worthless to us, when compared with Christ and his righteousness. Do we allow ourselves in any known sin, or in the neglect of any known duty? By such inquiries, faithfully made, we may judge of the state of our souls.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Aquila and Priscilla had formerly made some abode at Corinth, and there St. Paul's acquaintance with them began, (Acts 18:1-2) .
John Calvin Bible Commentary
With the Church that is in their houseA magnificent eulogium, inasmuch as the name of the Church is applied to a single family! At the same time it is befitting, that all the families of the pious should be regulated in such a manner as to be so many little Churches.As to the termCongregation, which Erasmus has used in preference, it is foreign to Paul’s design; for it was not his intention to designate a crowd of persons by a mere common term, but to speak in honorable terms of the management of a Christian household. His saluting them in the name of Aquila and Priscilla, confirms what I have noticed above — that the Epistle was written at Ephesus, not at Philippi. For Luke informs us, that they remained at Ephesus, when Paul went elsewhere. (Acts 18:19.)
McArther Bible Commentary
Aquila and Priscilla. See note on Act 18:2. They had become good friends of Paul, since he stayed in their house during his first ministry in Corinth (Act 18:1-3). He may have stayed with them the entire year and a half (cf. Act 18:18-19, Act 18:24-26). in their house. The early church used homes of believers for worship and many other activities (see, e.g., Act 2:46; Act 5:42; Act 10:23, Act 10:27-48; Act 20:7-8; Act 28:23).
Bible Cross References
Acts 2:9 Acts 16:6 Acts 18:2 Romans 16:5

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christian salutations.
Christianity by no means destroys civility. Religion should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those give a false idea of religion, and reproach it, who would take encouragement from it to be sour and morose. And Christian salutations are not mere empty compliments; but are real expressions of good-will to others, and commend them to the Divine grace and blessing. Every Christian family should be as a Christian church. Wherever two or three are gathered together in the name of Christ, and he is among them, there is a church. Here is a solemn warning. Many who have Christ's name much in their mouths, have no true love to him in their hearts. None love him in truth, who do not love his laws, and keep his commandments. Many are Christians in name, who do not love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. Such are separated from the people of God, and the favour of God. Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ, must perish without remedy. Let us not rest in any religious profession where there is not the love of Christ, earnest desires for his salvation, gratitude for his mercies, and obedience to his commandments. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has in it all that is good, for time and for eternity. To wish that our friends may have this grace with them, is wishing them the utmost good. And this we should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish them nothing greater, and we should wish them nothing less. True Christianity makes us wish those whom we love, the blessings of both worlds; this is meant in wishing the grace of Christ to be with them. The apostle had dealt plainly with the Corinthians, and told them of their faults with just severity; but he parts in love, and with a solemn profession of his love to them for Christ's sake. May our love be with all who are in Christ Jesus. Let us try whether all things appear worthless to us, when compared with Christ and his righteousness. Do we allow ourselves in any known sin, or in the neglect of any known duty? By such inquiries, faithfully made, we may judge of the state of our souls.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Salute one another with a holy kiss.The practice of kissing was very common among the Jews, as is manifest from the Scriptures. InGreece, though it was not so common and customary, it was by no means unknown; but the probability is, that Paul speaks here of a solemn kiss, with which they saluted each other in the sacred assembly. For I could easily believe, that from the times of the Apostles a kiss was used in connection with the administration of the Supper;in place of which, among nations that were somewhat averse to the practice of kissing, there crept in the custom of kissing the patine.However this may be, as it was a token of mutual love. I have no doubt, that Paul meant to exhort them to the cultivation of good-will among themselves — not merely in their mindsand in needful services, but also by that token, provided only it washoly, that is, neither unchaste nor deceitful,— though, at the same time,holy may be taken to meansacred.
McArther Bible Commentary
kiss. A pure expression of Christian love between men with men and women with women, with no sexual overtones (cf. Rom 16:16; 2Co 13:12; 1Th 5:26; 1Pe 5:14).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:47 Romans 16:16

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christian salutations.
Christianity by no means destroys civility. Religion should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those give a false idea of religion, and reproach it, who would take encouragement from it to be sour and morose. And Christian salutations are not mere empty compliments; but are real expressions of good-will to others, and commend them to the Divine grace and blessing. Every Christian family should be as a Christian church. Wherever two or three are gathered together in the name of Christ, and he is among them, there is a church. Here is a solemn warning. Many who have Christ's name much in their mouths, have no true love to him in their hearts. None love him in truth, who do not love his laws, and keep his commandments. Many are Christians in name, who do not love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. Such are separated from the people of God, and the favour of God. Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ, must perish without remedy. Let us not rest in any religious profession where there is not the love of Christ, earnest desires for his salvation, gratitude for his mercies, and obedience to his commandments. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has in it all that is good, for time and for eternity. To wish that our friends may have this grace with them, is wishing them the utmost good. And this we should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish them nothing greater, and we should wish them nothing less. True Christianity makes us wish those whom we love, the blessings of both worlds; this is meant in wishing the grace of Christ to be with them. The apostle had dealt plainly with the Corinthians, and told them of their faults with just severity; but he parts in love, and with a solemn profession of his love to them for Christ's sake. May our love be with all who are in Christ Jesus. Let us try whether all things appear worthless to us, when compared with Christ and his righteousness. Do we allow ourselves in any known sin, or in the neglect of any known duty? By such inquiries, faithfully made, we may judge of the state of our souls.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
With my own hand - What precedes having been wrote by an amanuensis.
McArther Bible Commentary
my own hand. Paul dictated the main part of the letter to a scribe (Rom 16:22), but finished and signed it himself.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:22 Galatians 6:11 Colossians 4:18 2 Thessalonians 3:17 Philemon 1:19

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christian salutations.
Christianity by no means destroys civility. Religion should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those give a false idea of religion, and reproach it, who would take encouragement from it to be sour and morose. And Christian salutations are not mere empty compliments; but are real expressions of good-will to others, and commend them to the Divine grace and blessing. Every Christian family should be as a Christian church. Wherever two or three are gathered together in the name of Christ, and he is among them, there is a church. Here is a solemn warning. Many who have Christ's name much in their mouths, have no true love to him in their hearts. None love him in truth, who do not love his laws, and keep his commandments. Many are Christians in name, who do not love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. Such are separated from the people of God, and the favour of God. Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ, must perish without remedy. Let us not rest in any religious profession where there is not the love of Christ, earnest desires for his salvation, gratitude for his mercies, and obedience to his commandments. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has in it all that is good, for time and for eternity. To wish that our friends may have this grace with them, is wishing them the utmost good. And this we should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish them nothing greater, and we should wish them nothing less. True Christianity makes us wish those whom we love, the blessings of both worlds; this is meant in wishing the grace of Christ to be with them. The apostle had dealt plainly with the Corinthians, and told them of their faults with just severity; but he parts in love, and with a solemn profession of his love to them for Christ's sake. May our love be with all who are in Christ Jesus. Let us try whether all things appear worthless to us, when compared with Christ and his righteousness. Do we allow ourselves in any known sin, or in the neglect of any known duty? By such inquiries, faithfully made, we may judge of the state of our souls.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ - If any be an enemy to his person, offices, doctrines, or commands. Let him be Anathema. Maran - atha - Anathema signifies a thing devoted to destruction. It seems to have been customary with the Jews of that age, when they had pronounced any man an Anathema, to add the Syriac expression, Maran - atha, that is, "The Lord cometh;" namely, to execute vengeance upon him. This weighty sentence the apostle chose to write with his own hand; and to insert it between his salutation and solemn benediction, that it might be the more attentively regarded.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
If any man love not the Lord JesusThe close of the Epistle consists ofthree parts. He entreats the grace of Christ in behalf of the Corinthians: he makes a declaration of his love towards them, and, with the severest threatening, he inveighs against those that falsely took upon themselves the Lord’s name, while not loving him from the heart. For he is not speaking of strangers, who avowedly hated the Christian name, but of pretenders and hypocrites, who troubled the Churches for the sake of their own belly, or from empty boasting.On such persons he denounces an anathema, and he also pronounces a curse upon them. It is not certain, however, whether he desires their destruction in the presence of God, or whether he wishes to render them odious — nay, even execrable, in the view of believers. Thus inGalatians 1:8, when pronouncing one who corrupts the Gospel to beaccursed,he does not mean that he was rejected or condemned by God, but he declares that he is to be abhorred by us. I expound it in a simple way as follows: “Let them perish and be cut off, as being the pests of the Church.” And truly, there is nothing that is more pernicious, than that class of persons, who prostitute a profession of piety to their own depraved affections. Now he points out the origin of this evil, when he says, that they do not love Christ, for a sincere and earnest love to Christ will not suffer us to give occasion of offense to brethren.What he immediately adds—Maranatha, is somewhat more difficult. Almost all of the ancients are agreed, that they are Syriac terms.Jerome, however, explains it:The Lord cometh; while others render it,At the coming of the Lord, or,Until the Lord comes. Every one, however, I think, must see how silly and puerile is the idea, that the Apostle spoke to Greeks in the Syriac tongue, when meaning to say —The Lord has come. Those who translate it,at the coming of the Lord, do so on mere conjecture; and besides, there is not much plausibility in that interpretation. How much more likely it is, that this was a customary form of expression among the Hebrews, when they wished to excommunicate any one. For the Apostles never speak in foreign tongues, except when they repeat anything in the person of another, as for example,Eli, Eli, lammah sabathani, (Matthew 27:46,)Talitha cumi, (Mark 5:41,) andEphphata, (Mark 7:34,) or when they make use of a word that has come into common use, asAmen—Hosanna. Let us see, then, whetherMaranatha suits with excommunication.Now Bullinger,on the authority of Theodore Bibliander, has affirmed, that, in the Chaldee dialect,Maharamata has the same meaning as the Hebrew termחרם,cherem, (accursed,)and I was myself at one time assured of the same thing by Wolfgang Capito,a man of blessed memory It is nothing unusual, however, for the Apostles to write such terms differently from the way in which they are pronounced in the language from which they are derived; as may be seen even from the instances brought forward above. Paul, then, after pronouncing an anathema on those whodo not love Christ,deeply affected with the seriousness of the matter, as if he reckoned that he had not said enough, added a term that was in common use among the Jews, and which they made use of in pronouncing a sentence of anathema — just as if, speaking in Latin, I should say, “I excommunicate thee,” but if I add — “and pronounce thee an anathema,” this would be an expression of more intense feeling.END OF THE COMMENTARIES ON THE FIRST EPISTLE.
McArther Bible Commentary
accursed. I.e., devoted to destruction. O Lord, come! In this context, Paul perhaps appeals for the Lord to take away the nominal, false Christians who threatened the spiritual well-being of the church. This was also an expression of eagerness for the Lord's return (cf. Rev 22:20). The Aramaic words are transliterated "Maranatha."
Bible Cross References
Romans 9:3 Philippians 4:5 Revelation 22:20

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christian salutations.
Christianity by no means destroys civility. Religion should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those give a false idea of religion, and reproach it, who would take encouragement from it to be sour and morose. And Christian salutations are not mere empty compliments; but are real expressions of good-will to others, and commend them to the Divine grace and blessing. Every Christian family should be as a Christian church. Wherever two or three are gathered together in the name of Christ, and he is among them, there is a church. Here is a solemn warning. Many who have Christ's name much in their mouths, have no true love to him in their hearts. None love him in truth, who do not love his laws, and keep his commandments. Many are Christians in name, who do not love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. Such are separated from the people of God, and the favour of God. Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ, must perish without remedy. Let us not rest in any religious profession where there is not the love of Christ, earnest desires for his salvation, gratitude for his mercies, and obedience to his commandments. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has in it all that is good, for time and for eternity. To wish that our friends may have this grace with them, is wishing them the utmost good. And this we should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish them nothing greater, and we should wish them nothing less. True Christianity makes us wish those whom we love, the blessings of both worlds; this is meant in wishing the grace of Christ to be with them. The apostle had dealt plainly with the Corinthians, and told them of their faults with just severity; but he parts in love, and with a solemn profession of his love to them for Christ's sake. May our love be with all who are in Christ Jesus. Let us try whether all things appear worthless to us, when compared with Christ and his righteousness. Do we allow ourselves in any known sin, or in the neglect of any known duty? By such inquiries, faithfully made, we may judge of the state of our souls.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:20 1 Corinthians 16:24

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Christian salutations.
Christianity by no means destroys civility. Religion should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those give a false idea of religion, and reproach it, who would take encouragement from it to be sour and morose. And Christian salutations are not mere empty compliments; but are real expressions of good-will to others, and commend them to the Divine grace and blessing. Every Christian family should be as a Christian church. Wherever two or three are gathered together in the name of Christ, and he is among them, there is a church. Here is a solemn warning. Many who have Christ's name much in their mouths, have no true love to him in their hearts. None love him in truth, who do not love his laws, and keep his commandments. Many are Christians in name, who do not love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. Such are separated from the people of God, and the favour of God. Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ, must perish without remedy. Let us not rest in any religious profession where there is not the love of Christ, earnest desires for his salvation, gratitude for his mercies, and obedience to his commandments. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ has in it all that is good, for time and for eternity. To wish that our friends may have this grace with them, is wishing them the utmost good. And this we should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish them nothing greater, and we should wish them nothing less. True Christianity makes us wish those whom we love, the blessings of both worlds; this is meant in wishing the grace of Christ to be with them. The apostle had dealt plainly with the Corinthians, and told them of their faults with just severity; but he parts in love, and with a solemn profession of his love to them for Christ's sake. May our love be with all who are in Christ Jesus. Let us try whether all things appear worthless to us, when compared with Christ and his righteousness. Do we allow ourselves in any known sin, or in the neglect of any known duty? By such inquiries, faithfully made, we may judge of the state of our souls.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:23 2 Corinthians 1:1