Submit to Those Who Help and Labor 1 Corinthians 16:16

Paul the apostle shared with the church members in Corinth concerning the “house of Stephanas” who were “the firstfruits of Achaia” and, “have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints”, and in chapter sixteen and verse sixteen of First Corinthians, Paul referred to the “house of Stephanas” as he encouraged the church members to, “submit” themselves “unto such, and to every one that helps...and labors”, where we read:

That you submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helps with us, and labors.

The verse begins, “That you submit yourselves unto such, ...” Paul began with the words, “that you submit yourselves” which means “even, indeed and also as the church members arrange themselves under, are subordinate to, obey and yield to one's admonition or advice” “unto such” or “toward this kind or sort”. Paul desired for the church members to “subordinate and be obedient to” people who were like the “household of “Stephanas”.

The verse continues, “... and to every one that helps with us, and labors.” Paul added the words, “and to every one” which means “and to each, the whole, all and everyone” “that helps” or “who works together, partners in labor, puts forth power together with and thereby assists” “with us” which refers to “alongside Paul and his companions”, “and labors” or “and grows weary, tired, exhausted with toil, burdens or grief”. Paul wanted the church members to “submit” to people who worked wearily alongside he and his companions.

When we consider these words from Paul, we see his desire for the church members to be subordinate to those who were like “Stephanas'” house as well as “helpers” in his ministry. Those who function and “labor” in the ministry need the support of those who are within the church. Jesus desires for everyone within the church to have a role in the spreading of His “good news” of salvation and eternal life. Some actually go and do the work, and others support the work “back home”. All of Jesus' church is to be involved, and when we discover those who are “mature in the faith” or “laboring with grief and exhaustion”, let us abide by this directive from Paul and “submit” our selves to them.

Next time Paul is “glad” before the church members for the “coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow…there is more…

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