In the final greetings of the apostle Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians, we find words that may seem brief at first glance, but they are loaded with deep spiritual meaning and pastoral instruction. Paul does not end his letter casually; instead, he highlights the example of faithful servants who lived out the gospel of Christ through their conduct, dedication, and love for the church. Through this, Paul teaches the Corinthian believers the importance of recognizing godly leadership and submitting to those who truly serve the Lord.
Paul specifically mentions the household of Stephanas, describing them as the first fruits of Achaia. This expression is not merely symbolic; it points to the reality that this family was among the first converts in that region and that their faith was proven by their actions. They did not remain passive believers but devoted themselves to the service of the saints. Their lives demonstrated what genuine Christian faith looks like when it is rooted in obedience and love.
Paul exhorts the church to submit to such people, not because of personal authority or dominance, but because their conduct reflected Christ. Submission in the biblical sense is not blind obedience; it is a recognition of spiritual maturity, wisdom, and faithful service. Those who walk according to the truth of the gospel naturally become examples worthy of imitation.
It is important to understand the context of the Corinthian church. This was a congregation marked by divisions, immaturity, and confusion in doctrine and practice. Throughout the letter, Paul corrects errors, rebukes sinful behavior, and calls the believers back to unity and holiness. Therefore, when he highlights faithful servants at the end of the letter, he is offering living examples of what the Corinthian believers should strive to be.
Paul expresses his joy in 1 Corinthians 16:17, saying that he was glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus. These men had refreshed his spirit and supplied what was lacking from the Corinthian church during his absence. This statement does not imply condemnation of the entire church, but rather highlights how God uses faithful individuals to strengthen and support His servants when others fall short.
Their presence was a source of encouragement to Paul, who often labored under persecution, rejection, and hardship. These brothers represented the unity and faithfulness that Paul longed to see fully developed in the Corinthian church. Their service was not motivated by recognition but by love for Christ and His people.
If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.
1 Corinthians 16:22
This verse is one of the most solemn and serious statements found in Paul’s letters. The word anathema refers to something or someone set apart for judgment, separated from God due to rejection of His truth. Paul is not speaking lightly or emotionally here; he is declaring a spiritual reality. To reject Christ is to place oneself under judgment.
The word Maranatha is an Aramaic expression meaning “Our Lord comes” or “The Lord is coming.” Together, this phrase carries a powerful message: those who do not love the Lord Jesus Christ remain under judgment, and this judgment is made certain by the imminent return of Christ. Paul reminds the church that time is limited and eternity is at stake.
This warning is not directed only at outsiders but serves as a call to self-examination within the church. Loving Christ is not merely a verbal confession; it is demonstrated through obedience, faithfulness, and perseverance. A profession of faith without genuine love for Christ is empty and dangerous.
Paul’s emphasis on love for Christ aligns with the entire message of Scripture. Jesus Himself said that those who love Him will keep His commandments. Therefore, Paul’s warning is consistent with the gospel message: salvation is evidenced by a transformed life rooted in love for the Savior.
The mention of faithful servants alongside this strong warning creates a clear contrast. On one side, we see men and families who lived out the gospel through service, humility, and obedience. On the other side, we see the reality of judgment for those who reject Christ. Paul leaves no middle ground.
For the Corinthian believers—and for us today—this passage teaches the importance of discernment. Not everyone who claims to be a believer truly loves the Lord. True love for Christ is revealed through submission to His word, respect for godly leadership, and commitment to the church.
Paul’s final exhortation is both a warning and a hope-filled reminder. Christ is coming. This truth should motivate believers to remain faithful, vigilant, and obedient. The return of Christ is not a reason for fear for those who love Him, but a source of encouragement and anticipation.
Let us stand firm. Christ is coming. These final words echo throughout the centuries as a call to perseverance. We are to remain steadfast in faith, rooted in sound doctrine, and active in service. Like the household of Stephanas, we are called to be examples of living faith in a world filled with compromise.
May we be counted among those who truly love the Lord Jesus Christ—not only in word, but in deed and in truth. Let us be obedient, wise, and faithful until the day of His glorious return. God bless you.