‘Now I beseech you, brethren (you know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have set themselves to minister to the saints), that you also be in subjection to such, and to every one who helps in the work and labours.'
‘Brethren (brothers and sisters).' His constant reference throughout the letter to the fact that they are his brothers, even when dealing with them most sternly, expresses his hope for them that they are truly in Christ, that they truly love the Lord (1 Corinthians 16:22). He does not easily write them off. He feels that all they now need is good leadership and guidance.
He commends to the Corinthians those who truly ‘help in the work' and labour, those who already follow the injunction in 1 Corinthians 15:58, and especially draws attention to Stephanas, who had come to him with others, bringing the questions from them. The description is probably in deliberate contrast with those who are so spiritual that all they can do is speak in tongues excessively. Here is one who sets himself to minister, to work and to labour in Christ. We can almost certainly assume from Paul's words that Stephanas was a prominent, trustworthy and reliable leader in the church.
So he especially commends to them Stephanas, who was one of his early converts and was, along with his household, the Lord's firstfruits in Achaia, initial converts for whom thanks could be given to God, along with all who are like-minded. He has shown his quality by setting himself to minister to God's people in Corinth, along with others of his household. Here at least was one sure place to which they could look for the truth and for guidance, a solid rock of truth.
‘Be in subjection to such.' That is, with a willing subjection because of their worthiness. They may choose to whom they will be in subjection, therefore let them choose such worthy people as these (compare Ephesians 5:21; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).