In Paul’s wrap up, he takes care of a number of issues. The first issue relates to the area of generosity. Paul reminds this wealthy church at Corinth that their brothers and sisters in Jerusalem were in need; and that the Corinthian church needed to assist. He took the time to remind them to set aside some money each week, not to wait until he showed up. It is easier to remain faithful in giving if it is a habit and not as an event.
In addition, Paul asked the church to honor and protect Timothy, Paul’s main disciple. Timothy was young and often disregarded due to his youth. Paul wanted to assure that Timothy was given the respect due Him as a man of God. Like any father, Paul knew the power Timothy possessed and simply wanted the church to encourage Timothy.
After the minor reminders, Paul gives 5 anchors to cling to as God’s chosen.
First, Paul reminds the Corinthians to BE ON GUARD. The enemy does his best work when we perceive that all is well. We get a little comfortable and a little self-confident and then “Bam”, Satan hits us with a trial or temptation that rocks our world. So, Paul is reminding the church not to let their guard down.
Second, Paul encouraged the Corinthians to STAND FIRM. They were growing and prospering as a family of believers. As they were more inclusive, the enemy would push them to waiver on issues of faith. In an attempt to make everyone feel special, they were being asked to compromise principles. Paul told the church to stand firm in the faith that they had been taught, We are called to do the same.
Third, Paul tells the Corinthians to be COURAGEOUS. The enemy uses fear as a liar and main tool of neutralizing or minimizing the church. Paul is reminding the Corinthians to set aside that fear and be courageous!
Fourth, We are to be STRONG, We cannot cave in every time circumstance or temptation attempt to defeat us. The church has to keep swinging as it is in spiritual battle. We have to put on the full armor of God and wield the sword of the spirit until it freezes to our hand!
Fifth and finally, the church is to do everything coming from a place of LOVE. As we were reminded in Chapter 13, without Love all that one says is noise, all that one gives is waste and all that one sacrifices is worthless! Love inhabits the other traits and conquers all!
God Bless You
Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. 2 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. 3 Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem. 4 If it seems advisable for me to go also, they will accompany me.
Personal Requests
5 After I go through Macedonia, I will come to you—for I will be going through Macedonia. 6 Perhaps I will stay with you for a while, or even spend the winter, so that you can help me on my journey, wherever I go. 7 For I do not want to see you now and make only a passing visit; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. 8 But I will stay on at Ephesus until Pentecost, 9 because a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.
10 When Timothy comes, see to it that he has nothing to fear while he is with you, for he is carrying on the work of the Lord, just as I am. 11 No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.
12 Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity.
13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.
15 You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, 16 to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it. 17 I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. 18 For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
Final Greetings
19 The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla[a] greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house. 20 All the brothers and sisters here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
21 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand.
22 If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Come, Lord[b]!
23 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
24 My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.[c]
Walking With God 