Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 16:1

What does 1 Corinthians 16:1 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 16:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 16:1 means

Paul begins his closing matters by directing the Corinthians about a relief offering for fellow believers. This is not a private whim but a settled practice he has already ordered for the churches of Galatia. The collection expresses Christian compassion and unity across regions, linking Gentile congregations to needy saints elsewhere. It affirms that faith must take tangible form, especially toward the household of faith. By framing it as an “order,” Paul underscores that generous care is not optional philanthropy but a shared responsibility. He dignifies giving as worshipful obedience, ensuring the Corinthians see themselves as part of a wider body, not an isolated assembly with purely local concerns.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I gave order to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I gave order to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Now about the giving of money for the saints, as I gave orders to the churches of Galatia, so do you.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And concerning the collection that <FI>is<Fi> for the saints, as I directed to the assemblies of Galatia, so also ye--do ye;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Now concerning the collections that are made for the saints: as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, so do ye also.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the assemblies of Galatia, so do ye do also.

Context

After prolonged doctrinal and pastoral correction, Paul turns to concrete instructions. He begins with the offering for the saints, a matter he treats consistently among the churches. Verses 1–4 all hang together: he lays out the plan (v.1), the weekly method for setting funds aside (v.2), the process for appointing trustworthy carriers (v.3), and his own possible involvement (v.4). This practical topic sets the tone for the chapter—orderly, accountable, and unified service—before Paul details travel plans, commends coworkers, and gives final exhortations and greetings.

v.1This passage

v.2Upon the first day of the week let each one of you lay by him in store, as he may prosper, that no collections be made when I come.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Acts 9:41

    And he gave her his hand, and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive.

  • Romans 15:25

    but now, I say, I go unto Jerusalem, ministering unto the saints.

  • Galatians 1:2

    and all the brethren that are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:

  • Hebrews 6:10

    for God is not unrighteous to forget your work and the love which ye showed toward his name, in that ye ministered unto the saints, and still do minister.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:1

    Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God which hath been given in the churches of Macedonia;

  • 2 Corinthians 9:12

    For the ministration of this service not only filleth up the measure of the wants of the saints, but aboundeth also through many thanksgivings unto God;

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