Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 16:17
I am glad that Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus have arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian church while finalizing instructions for the Jerusalem collection and church order. He records the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus as a direct update to the community he is addressing.
The words — The Greek χαίρω (chairō) translates literally as "I rejoice," and παρουσίᾳ (parousia) means "coming" or "arrival." The text states Paul's gladness at their physical arrival before noting that they supplied what the Corinthians lacked.
The thread — The pattern of delegated workers covering communal or personal deficits runs through Paul's letters, where brothers from Macedonia supplied his need (2 Corinthians 11:9), Epaphroditus nearly died to cover the Philippians' shortfall in service (Philippians 2:30), and a trusted associate was intended to minister to Paul on behalf of the sending church (Philemon 1:13).
Why it lands — The text states that the Corinthians should submit to and show appreciation to those who actively fill gaps in ministry. It requires readers to measure leadership by tangible service and to respond with concrete support rather than abstract approval.
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 am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied.
Cross-references
- 2 Corinthians 11:9 And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so.
- Philippians 2:30 because he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for your deficit of service to me.
- Philemon 1:13 I would have liked to keep him with me, so that on your behalf he could minister to me in my chains for the gospel.