1 CORINTHIANS CHAPTER 16.
Concluding Admonitions. 1 Corinthians 16, 1–24.
A concluding exhortation: V. 17. I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus; for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. V. 18. For they have refreshed my spirit and yours; therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.
As for the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, it had given great joy to the apostle. At the present time they were in Ephesus as delegates of the Corinthian congregation, and Paul was very glad of the fact. When they would return to Corinth, the brethren would surely show them that respect in love which was due them.
These men were probably the principal, if not the only bearers of the present letter to the Corinthians. Paul rejoiced at their presence, because his lack of them (the Corinthians) these men had filled up.
Here is another evidence of Paul's delicate tact; for his words imply that the believers of Corinth, were they only present, would cheer him by their love and kindness; this being impossible at present, their delegates were representing them also in this respect, filling the place of their congregation in a very acceptable manner.
And in doing so, they were giving recreation both to Paul's spirit and to that of the brethren whom they represented; for such is the restful effect of friendly converse and sympathy: it cheers the receiver and reacts upon the giver.
Therefore the Corinthians will surely acknowledge such men as these, not only to regard them according to their abilities, but also to treat them with due affection and respect — a fine example for Christian congregations at all times.