The final chapter is a reminder that this is a real letter from a pastor to a
church that he dearly loved.
1 Corinthians ends with final greetings and travel plans. This is a reminder that while
extremely important theological themes have been discussed in this letter, such as the
nature of the Gospel message, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the nature of the
church, and other issues, it all plays out in the context of normal life.
Paul intends to travel to Corinth and wants them to participate in financially helping the
believers in Jerusalem. While each congregation has its challenges and priorities, this
reminds us that all believers worldwide are spiritually connected. When some of the
family of God are in need, those who can should help generously.
Paul makes no mention of the Old T estament tithe, which is telling considering how he
used the community life of the Israelites as instructive in 1 Corinthians 5 and the
narrative of Israel’ s wilderness journey as the spiritual heritage of the New T estament
believers in 1 Corinthians 10. The new way is that of sacrificial generosity, as Paul will
further discuss in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9. This generosity should not be done under
compulsion or begrudgingly but with thought and joy.
Paul gives a final exhortation to be on guard, stand firm, be courageous and strong,
and do everything in love.
Questions for Reflection/Discussion:
-How connected do you feel to congregations outside of your immediate geographic
location?
-How does the example of 1 Corinthians 16 inform your outlook on the interconnection
of believers worldwide?
-How can you be more generous to help brothers and sisters in Christ who are in need?
