Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 16:15
You know that Stephanas and his household were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. Now I urge you, brothers,
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian believers from Macedonia while concluding his letter with practical instructions. He addresses the church directly to acknowledge a specific household and issue a command regarding their conduct.
The words — οἴδατε (oidate) means "you know," and παρακαλῶ (Parakalō) translates to "I exhort." These terms anchor the passage in shared knowledge and direct apostolic instruction.
The thread — The text identifies Stephanas’s household as the first converts in Achaia and links to his earlier mention in 1 Corinthians 1:16. It also connects to the broader theme of serving the saints found in Romans 15:25 and house church greetings in Romans 16:5.
Why it lands — The passage demands recognition of those who serve the saints and prepares the reader to submit to such laborers. It requires the audience to actively align their conduct with the example of devoted service already established.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
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,)
Cross-references
- 1 Corinthians 1:16 Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that I do not remember if I baptized anyone else.
- Romans 16:5 Greet also the church that meets at their house. Greet my beloved Epenetus, who was the first convert to Christ in the province of Asia.
- Romans 15:25 Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem to serve the saints there.
- Romans 12:13 Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.
- Romans 16:2 Welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her with anything she may need from you. For she has been a great help to many people, including me.
- 2 Corinthians 8:4 they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.
- 2 Corinthians 9:1 Now about the service to the saints, there is no need for me to write to you.
- 1 Timothy 5:10 and well known for good deeds such as bringing up children, entertaining strangers, washing the feet of the saints, imparting relief to the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work.
- 1 Peter 4:10 As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.
- Acts 9:36 In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated as Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity.