1 Corinthians 16:8-12 - Sermon Bible Commentary

Bible Comments

1 Corinthians 16:8-12

What Christianity does for a Man.

I. Christianity made Paul courageous. "There are many adversaries." A very good reason for leaving Ephesus, but, some of us would have thought, a bad one for remaining there. Paul looked at the "door" first, and at the adversary next.

II. Christianity made Paul considerate. "See that Timothy be with you without fear." He wished the young man to have a good start at Corinth, knowing how much depends upon the beginning.

III. Christianity made Paul magnanimous. "I greatly desired Apollos to come unto you." Paul was in speech contemptible, as in bodily presence he was weak; but he honoured the eloquence of his brother, and desired to extend his influence and fame.

Parker, City Temple,vol. ii., p. 68.

1 Corinthians 16:8-12

8 But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost.

9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

10 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do.

11 Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.

12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time.