Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 16:17

What does 1 Corinthians 16:17 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 16:17 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 16:17 means

Paul rejoices at the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus. They supplied what was lacking from the Corinthians—likely by their presence, encouragement, and perhaps delivering the church’s communications or gifts. Their coming bridged the distance between Paul and the congregation. This joy is not flattery; it is gratitude for brothers who stood in the gap. Where the church could not be present to care for Paul directly, these men represented them well. Their ministry illustrates how God uses individuals to carry the fellowship and resources of a whole body to those who need it.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they supplied.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they supplied.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for they have done what was needed to make your work complete.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and I rejoice over the presence of Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus, because the lack of you did these fill up;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And I rejoice in the presence of Stephanus and Fortunatus and Achaicus: because that which was wanting on your part, they have supplied.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But I rejoice in the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus; because they have supplied what was lacking on your part.

Context

This commendation builds on verses 15–16. Paul is not naming abstract servants; he names people whose visit made a real difference. Verse 18 will add that they refreshed both his spirit and the Corinthians’. By highlighting the benefit he received, Paul provides further reason for the church to acknowledge such workers. These verses cap the section on honoring faithful service before Paul turns to a cascade of greetings and final words (vv.19–24).

v.16that ye also be in subjection unto such, and to every one that helpeth in the work and laboreth.

v.17This passage

v.18For they refreshed my spirit and yours: acknowledge ye therefore them that are such.

Cross references

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

  • 2 Corinthians 11:9

    and when I was present with you and was in want, I was not a burden on any man; for the brethren, when they came from Macedonia, supplied the measure of my want; and in everything I kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.

  • Philemon 1:13

    whom I would fain have kept with me, that in thy behalf he might minister unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

  • Philippians 2:30

    because for the work of Christ he came nigh unto death, hazarding his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me.

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