The Meaning of 1 Corinthians 16:15 Explained

1 Corinthians 16:15

KJV: 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,)

YLT: And I entreat you, brethren, ye have known the household of Stephanas, that it is the first-fruit of Achaia, and to the ministration to the saints they did set themselves --

Darby: But I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the first-fruits of Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the saints for service,)

ASV: Now I beseech you, brethren (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have set themselves to minister unto the saints),

KJV Reverse Interlinear

<1161> 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,  ) 

What does 1 Corinthians 16:15 Mean?

Context Summary

1 Corinthians 16:13-24 - Exhortations And Salutations
The Apostle was careful to cultivate friendship, one of the priceless gifts of God; and he was very generous not only in his references to his friends, but also in his dealings with them. Because Timothy was deficient in virile strength, Paul was always contriving to make his way easier; and though Apollos had drawn away some of his converts, the Apostle was desirous for him to visit Corinth again. Nor could he forget the household which had yielded him the first fruits. His solitude had been greatly cheered by the advent of the Corinthian deputation. Human love is a revelation of the divine; an earthen pitcher which God fills with heavenly treasure; a chalice holding the wine of life.
Notice the flaming forth of Paul's passionate love for Christ. He felt that any who failed to love Him must be accursed in disposition and soul; and would be accursed at his coming, like the barren tree standing in the midst of an orchard of fruit trees, crowned with blossom or heavy with fruit. Maran atha!-our Lord cometh. He will put right the wrongs of time, and crown His faithful servants with honor and glory. Hallelujah [source]

Chapter Summary: 1 Corinthians 16

1  He exhorts them to a collection for the brothers at Jerusalem
10  Commends Timothy;
13  and after friendly admonitions,
16  concludes his epistle with various salutations

Greek Commentary for 1 Corinthians 16:15

Ye know [οιδατε]
Koiné{[28928]}š form for second perfect indicative used as present of οραω — horaō Parenthetic clause through rest of the verse. Stephanas is mentioned also in 1 Corinthians 1:16 and in 1 Corinthians 16:17. For απαρχη — aparchē see note on 1 Corinthians 15:20, 1 Corinthians 15:23. [source]
They have set themselves [εταχαν εαυτους]
Remarkable statement worthy of attention today. This noble family appointed themselves to be ministers to the saints that needed it (the poor and needy). Personal work for Christ is still the only way to win the world for Christ, voluntary personal work. If all Christians did it!sa120 [source]
Achaia []
In a restricted sense, the northwest of Peloponnesus; but often used by the poets for the whole of Greece. Under the Romans Greece was divided into two provinces, Macedonia and Achaia; the former including Macedonia proper, with Illyricum, Epirus, and Thessaly, and the latter all that lay south of these. In this latter acceptation the word is uniformly employed in the New Testament. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 1 Corinthians 16:15

John 14:2 House [οἰκίᾳ]
The dwelling-place. Used primarily of the edifice (Matthew 7:24; Matthew 8:14; Matthew 9:10; Acts 4:34). Of the family or all the persons inhabiting the house (Matthew 12:25; John 4:53; 1 Corinthians 16:15; Matthew 10:13). Of property (Matthew 23:14; Mark 12:40). Here meaning heaven. [source]
Acts 16:23 The jailor [τωι δεσμοπυλακι]
Late word The lxx has the word ασπαλως τηρειν — archidesmophulax (Genesis 39:21-23). Chrysostom calls this jailor Stephanus, he was of Achaia (1 Corinthians 16:15). [source]
Acts 16:23 Many stripes [πολλας πληγας]
The Jewish law was forty stripes save one (2 Corinthians 11:24). The Roman custom depended on the caprice of the judge and was a terrible ordeal. It was the custom to inflict the stripes on the naked body (back) as Livy 2.5 says: “Missique lictores ad sumendum supplicium, nudatos virgis caedunt.” On πληγας — plēgas (from πλησσω — plēssō to strike a blow) See note on Luke 10:30; and notes on Luke 12:47. The jailor (τωι δεσμοπυλακι — tōi desmophulaki). Late word (δεσμοσ πυλαχ — desmosαρχιδεσμοπυλαχ — phulax keeper of bonds), in the N.T. only here (Acts 16:23, Acts 16:27, Acts 16:36). The lxx has the word ασπαλως τηρειν — archidesmophulax (Genesis 39:21-23). Chrysostom calls this jailor Stephanus, he was of Achaia (1 Corinthians 16:15). To keep safely Present active infinitive, to keep on keeping safely, perhaps “as dangerous political prisoners” (Rackham). He had some rank and was not a mere turnkey. [source]
Romans 16:5 Epainetus [Επαινετον]
Nothing is known of him except this item, “the first-fruits of Asia” An early convert from the province of Asia. Cf. Acts 2:9; 1 Corinthians 16:15 (about Stephanas and Achaia). [source]
1 Corinthians 1:16 Also the household of Stephanas [και τον Στεπανα οικον]
Mentioned as an afterthought. Robertson and Plummer suggest that Paul‘s amanuensis reminded him of this case. Paul calls him a first-fruit of Achaia (1 Corinthians 16:15) and so earlier than Crispus and he was one of the three who came to Paul from Corinth (1 Corinthians 16:17), clearly a family that justified Paul‘s personal attention about baptism. [source]
1 Corinthians 12:5 Of ministrations [διακονιων]
This old word is from διακονος — diakonos and has a general meaning of service as here (Romans 11:13) and a special ministration like that of Martha (Luke 10:40) and the collection (1 Corinthians 16:15; 2 Corinthians 8:4). [source]
1 Corinthians 15:20 The first-fruits [απαρχη]
Old word from απαρχομαι — aparchomai to offer firstlings or first-fruits. In lxx for first-fruits. In papyri for legacy-duty, entrance-fee, and also first-fruits as here. See also 1 Corinthians 15:23; 1 Corinthians 16:15; Romans 8:23, etc. Christ is “first-born from the dead” (Colossians 1:18). Others raised from the dead died again, but not so Jesus. That sleep (των κεκοιμημενων — tōn kekoimēmenōn). Perfect middle participle as in Matthew 27:52 which see. Beautiful picture of death from which word (κοιμαομαι — koimaomai) comes our χεμετερψ — cemetery f0). [source]
1 Corinthians 16:16 That ye also be in subjection unto such [ινα και υμεις υποτασσηστε τοις τοιουτοις]
This is the exhortation begun in 1 Corinthians 16:15. The family of Stephanas took the lead in good works. Do ye also follow such leaders. This is our great problem today, to find great leaders and many loyal followers. This would solve all church problems, great leadership and great following. Lend a hand. [source]
2 Corinthians 1:1 Achaia []
See on 1 Corinthians 16:15. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:12 Know [εἰδέναι]
See on 1 Thessalonians 4:4. Recognize them for what they are, and as entitled to respect because of their office. Comp. ἐπιγινώσκετε acknowledge 1 Corinthians 16:18; and ἐγνώσθης takestknowledge, lxx, Romans href="/desk/?q=ro+12:8&sr=1">Romans 12:8. Used of superintendents of households, 1 Timothy 3:4, 1 Timothy 3:5, 1 Timothy 3:12: of the ruling of elders of the church, 1 Timothy 5:17. It does not indicate a particular ecclesiastical office, but is used functionally. The ecclesiastical nomenclature of the Pauline Epistles is unsettled, corresponding with the fact that the primitive church was not a homogeneous body throughout christendom. The primitive Pauline church consisted of a number of separate fraternities which were self-governing. The recognition of those who ministered to the congregations depended on the free choice of their members. See for instance 1 Corinthians 16:15, 1 Corinthians 16:16. The congregation exercised discipline and gave judgment: 1 Corinthians 5:3-5; 2 Corinthians 2:6, 2 Corinthians 2:7; 2 Corinthians 7:11, 2 Corinthians 7:12; Galatians 6:1. [source]
1 Thessalonians 1:5 How that [οτι]
It is not certain whether οτι — hoti here means “because” (θυια — quia) as in 2 Thessalonians 3:7; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Romans 8:27 or declarative οτι — hoti “how that,” knowing the circumstances of your election (Lightfoot) or explanatory, as in Acts 16:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:1; 1 Corinthians 16:15; 2 Corinthians 12:3.; Romans 13:11. [source]
2 Thessalonians 2:13 Beloved of the Lord [ηγαπημενοι υπο κυριου]
Perfect passive participle of αγαπαω — agapaō with υπο — hupo and the ablative as in 1 Thessalonians 1:4, only here κυριου — kuriou instead of τεου — theou the Lord Jesus rather than God the Father. Because that God chose you (οτι ειλατο υμας ο τεος — hoti heilato humas ho theos). First aorist middle indicative of αιρεω — haireō to take, old verb, but uncompounded only in N.T. here, Philemon 1:22; Hebrews 11:25, and here only in sense of choose, that being usually εχαιρεομαι — exaireomai or προοριζω — proorizō From the beginning Probably the correct text (Aleph D L) and not απαρχην — aparchēn (first fruits, B G P), though here alone in Paul‘s writings and a hard reading, the eternal choice or purpose of God (1 Corinthians 2:7; Ephesians 1:4; 2 Timothy 1:9), while απαρχην — aparchēn is a favourite idea with Paul (1 Corinthians 15:20, 1 Corinthians 15:23; 1 Corinthians 16:15; Romans 8:23; Romans 11:16; Romans 16:5). Unto salvation (εις σωτηριαν — eis sōtērian). The ultimate goal, final salvation. In sanctification of the Spirit Subjective genitive πνευματος — pneumatos sanctification wrought by the Holy Spirit. And belief of the truth (και πιστει αλητειας — kai pistei alētheias). Objective genitive αλητειας — alētheias belief in the truth. [source]
2 Thessalonians 2:13 From the beginning [απ αρχης]
Probably the correct text (Aleph D L) and not απαρχην — aparchēn (first fruits, B G P), though here alone in Paul‘s writings and a hard reading, the eternal choice or purpose of God (1 Corinthians 2:7; Ephesians 1:4; 2 Timothy 1:9), while απαρχην — aparchēn is a favourite idea with Paul (1 Corinthians 15:20, 1 Corinthians 15:23; 1 Corinthians 16:15; Romans 8:23; Romans 11:16; Romans 16:5). Unto salvation (εις σωτηριαν — eis sōtērian). The ultimate goal, final salvation. In sanctification of the Spirit Subjective genitive πνευματος — pneumatos sanctification wrought by the Holy Spirit. And belief of the truth (και πιστει αλητειας — kai pistei alētheias). Objective genitive αλητειας — alētheias belief in the truth. [source]
Revelation 14:4 Were purchased from among men [ηγοραστησαν απο των αντρωπων]
First aorist passive indicative of αγοραζω — agorazō repeating the close of Revelation 14:3.First fruits (απαρχη — aparchē). See for this word 1 Corinthians 16:15; Romans 11:16; Romans 16:5. This seems to mean that the 144,000 represent not the whole, but only a portion of the great harvest to come (Matthew 9:37), not only the first installment, but those marked by high spiritual service to God and the Lamb (Romans 12:1; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Peter 2:5). [source]
Revelation 14:4 First fruits [απαρχη]
See for this word 1 Corinthians 16:15; Romans 11:16; Romans 16:5. This seems to mean that the 144,000 represent not the whole, but only a portion of the great harvest to come (Matthew 9:37), not only the first installment, but those marked by high spiritual service to God and the Lamb (Romans 12:1; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Peter 2:5). [source]
Revelation 14:4 For they are virgins [παρτενοι γαρ εισιν]
Παρτενος — Parthenos can be applied to men as well as women. Swete takes this language “metaphorically, as the symbolical character of the Book suggests.” Charles considers it an interpolation in the interest of celibacy for both men and women. If taken literally, the words can refer only to adultery or fornication (Beckwith). Jesus recognised abstinence only for those able to receive it (Matthew 19:12), as did Paul (1 Corinthians 7:1, 1 Corinthians 7:8, 1 Corinthians 7:32, 1 Corinthians 7:36). Marriage is approved by Paul in 1 Timothy 4:3 and by Hebrews 13:4. The New Testament exalts marriage and this passage should not be construed as degrading it.Whithersoever he goeth (οπου αν υπαγει — hopou an hupagei). Indefinite local clause with modal αν — an and the present active indicative of υπαγω — hupagō The Christian life is following the Lamb of God as Jesus taught (Mark 2:14; Mark 10:21; Luke 9:59; John 1:43; John 21:19, etc.) and as Peter taught (1 Peter 2:21) and John (1 John 2:6).Were purchased from among men First aorist passive indicative of αγοραζω — agorazō repeating the close of Revelation 14:3.First fruits (απαρχη — aparchē). See for this word 1 Corinthians 16:15; Romans 11:16; Romans 16:5. This seems to mean that the 144,000 represent not the whole, but only a portion of the great harvest to come (Matthew 9:37), not only the first installment, but those marked by high spiritual service to God and the Lamb (Romans 12:1; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Peter 2:5). [source]
Revelation 2:19 Thy works [σου τα εργα]
As in Revelation 2:2 and explained (explanatory use of και — kai = namely) by what follows. Four items are given, with separate feminine article for each (την αγαπην την πιστιν την διακονιαν την υπομονην — tēn agapēnπιστιν — tēn pistinδιακονιαν — tēn diakonianκαι — tēn hupomonēn), a longer list of graces than in Revelation 2:2 for Ephesus. More praise is given in the case of Ephesus and Thyatira when blame follows than in the case of Smyrna and Philadelphia when no fault is found. Love comes first in this list in true Johannine fashion. Faith (και — pistin) here may be “faithfulness,” and ministry (οτι — diakonian) is ministration to needs of others (Acts 11:29; 1 Corinthians 16:15). [source]

What do the individual words in 1 Corinthians 16:15 mean?

I exhort now you brothers you know the house of Stephanas that it is firstfruit - of Achaia and to service to the saints they have devoted themselves
Παρακαλῶ δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀδελφοί οἴδατε τὴν οἰκίαν Στεφανᾶ ὅτι ἐστὶν ἀπαρχὴ τῆς Ἀχαΐας καὶ εἰς διακονίαν τοῖς ἁγίοις ἔταξαν ἑαυτούς

Παρακαλῶ  I  exhort 
Parse: Verb, Present Indicative Active, 1st Person Singular
Root: παρακαλέω  
Sense: to call to one’s side, call for, summon.
δὲ  now 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: δέ  
Sense: but, moreover, and, etc.
ἀδελφοί  brothers 
Parse: Noun, Vocative Masculine Plural
Root: ἀδελφός  
Sense: a brother, whether born of the same two parents or only of the same father or mother.
οἴδατε  you  know 
Parse: Verb, Perfect Indicative Active, 2nd Person Plural
Root: οἶδα  
Sense: to see.
οἰκίαν  house 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: οἰκία  
Sense: a house.
Στεφανᾶ  of  Stephanas 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: Στεφανᾶς  
Sense: a Christian convert of Corinth.
ὅτι  that 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: ὅτι  
Sense: that, because, since.
ἐστὶν  it  is 
Parse: Verb, Present Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: εἰμί  
Sense: to be, to exist, to happen, to be present.
ἀπαρχὴ  firstfruit 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root: ἀπαρχή  
Sense: to offer firstlings or firstfruits.
τῆς  - 
Parse: Article, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Ἀχαΐας  of  Achaia 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: Ἀχαί̈α  
Sense: in a restricted sense, the maritime region of northern Peloponnesus.
διακονίαν  service 
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: διακονία 
Sense: service, ministering, esp.
τοῖς  to  the 
Parse: Article, Dative Masculine Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
ἁγίοις  saints 
Parse: Adjective, Dative Masculine Plural
Root: ἅγιος  
Sense: most holy thing, a saint.
ἔταξαν  they  have  devoted 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Indicative Active, 3rd Person Plural
Root: τάσσω  
Sense: to put in order, to station.
ἑαυτούς  themselves 
Parse: Reflexive Pronoun, Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural
Root: ἑαυτοῦ  
Sense: himself, herself, itself, themselves.