1 Corinthians 16:12-18: Personal Greetings

November 05, 2026 Blaize

Before concluding his letter, Paul includes personal remarks. In Verse 12, he shares that although he encouraged Apollos to visit the Corinthians, Apollos chose to do so later. Verses 15-18 feature Paul's acknowledgment of Stephanas' household, the first converts in Achaia, commending them for their service to the Lord's people. He particularly highlights the efforts of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus for their significant contributions and the refreshment they brought to him and the church, and he calls for the Corinthians to honor such dedicated individuals. Amidst these personal notes, Paul also offers an exhortation, urging the Corinthians to remain vigilant, steadfast in faith, courageous and strong, and to do everything with love.

Paul's epistles in the New Testament are notable for their personal greetings, a common practice in letters of that era. In Romans 16:1-16, Paul sends a detailed list of greetings to various members of the Roman church, such as Priscilla, Aquila, Epenetus, Mary, Andronicus, and Junia. In Philippians 4:21-22, he extends greetings to all the saints, including those in Caesar's household. In Colossians 4:10-15, he acknowledges Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus by name, and this pattern continues in 2 Timothy 4:19-21 and Philemon 1:23-24, where he greets people such as Priscilla, Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.

Personal greetings in these epistles served multiple purposes. They often endorsed the messengers carrying the letters. Second, greetings often conveyed wishes for health, peace, or grace. In the middle of his greetings in 1 Corinthians, Paul includes an exhortation that blends personal acknowledgment with spiritual guidance.

By naming individuals in his letters, Paul significantly enhanced the sense of community and belonging. This approach of honoring people by name in a community is not only simple but profoundly effective in strengthening communal bonds and fostering an environment where each member feels recognized and valued.

Lord, help me to foster community, never forgetting to honor people!