Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 16:3
Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian congregation regarding the Jerusalem collection. He explains the procedure for transporting the funds after his own arrival.
The words — The verb δοκιμάσητε (dokimasēte) literally means "you shall approve" or "test," indicating the church selects the delegates. The noun ἐπιστολῶν (epistolōn) denotes "letters" of commendation that will accompany these chosen men.
The thread — This administrative procedure appears in 2 Corinthians 8:4, where the church pleads to share in the service, 8:6, where Paul urges the completion of the grace, and 8:18, where a praised brother is sent alongside Titus.
Why it lands — The text requires formal congregational approval before any representative carries the collection. It establishes accountability through written credentials and shared oversight rather than unilateral apostolic authority.
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
And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.
Cross-references
- 2 Corinthians 8:4 they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.
- 2 Corinthians 8:6 So we urged Titus to help complete your act of grace, just as he had started it.
- 2 Corinthians 8:18 Along with Titus we are sending the brother who is praised by all the churches for his work in the gospel.
- Acts 6:1 In those days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Grecian Jews among them began to grumble against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.
- 1 Corinthians 4:19 But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord is willing, and then I will find out not only what these arrogant people are saying, but what power they have.
- 1 Corinthians 11:34 If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you come together it will not result in judgment. And when I come, I will give instructions about the remaining matters.