1 Corinthians Chapter 16, Verse 15
From BibleWiki
15: παρακαλω δε υμας αδελφοι οιδατε την οικιαν στεφανα οτι εστιν απαρχη της αχαιας και εις διακονιαν τοις αγιοις εταξαν εαυτους
15: I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that
it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted
themselves to the ministry of the saints,)
15: And I beseech you, brethren, you know the house of Stephanus, and
of Fortunatus, and of Achaicus, that they are the firstfruits of Achaia,
and have dedicated themselves to the ministry of the saints:
I beseech you, brethren. The construction here is somewhat involved, but the sense is plain. The words, "I beseech you," in this verse, are evidently to be taken in connexion with 1Cor 16:16. "I beseech you that ye submit yourselves unto such," etc. The design is, to exhort them to pay proper deference to Stephanas, and to all who sustained the same rank and character; and the remainder of 1Cor 16:15 is designed to state the reason why they should show respect and kindness to the household of Stephanas.
Ye know the house. You are acquainted with the household, or family Probably a considerable portion, or all, of the family of Stephanas had been converted to the christian faith.
Of Stephanas. See "1Cor 1:16". Paul there says, that he had baptized his family.
That it is the first fruits of Achaia. They were the first converted to the Christian religion in Achaia. See "Rom 16:5". Respecting Achaia, See "Acts 18:12".
That they have addicted themselves, etc. That they have devoted themselves to the service of Christians. That is, by aiding the ministry; by showing hospitality; by providing for their wants; by attending and aiding the apostles in their journeys, etc.
