Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 16:18

What does 1 Corinthians 16:18 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 16:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 16:18 means

Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus refreshed Paul’s spirit, and by extension refreshed the Corinthians’ as well, since their faithful representation encouraged unity. Paul commands the church to acknowledge such people. Recognition is not worldly flattery; it is a fitting response to humble, fruitful service. When servants are honored, the church learns what to value. Their refreshing influence—bringing comfort, clarity, and renewed zeal—shows the power of presence and encouragement in gospel work. By commending them, Paul invites the Corinthians to cultivate a culture that notices, thanks, and supports those who quietly build up others.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

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

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

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

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For they gave comfort to my spirit and to yours: for which cause give respect to such people.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for they did refresh my spirit and yours; acknowledge ye, therefore, those who <FI>are<Fi> such.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For they have refreshed both my spirit and yours. Know them, therefore, that are such.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: own therefore such.

Context

This verse concludes the commendation of specific servants (vv.15–18). The point is to foster a church atmosphere where genuine labor is esteemed. With that tone set, Paul moves to the broader family of churches (v.19) and personal greetings that express shared life across regions (vv.19–21). These pave the way for a solemn warning (v.22) and then end with blessings of grace and love (vv.23–24). The flow ties together love, order, honor, and unity.

v.17And I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they supplied.

v.18This passage

v.19The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Prisca salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house.

Cross references

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

  • Proverbs 25:13

    As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, So isa faithful messenger to them that send him; For he refresheth the soul of his masters.

  • 3 John 1:4

    Greater joy have I none than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.

  • Philemon 1:20

    Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my heart in Christ.

  • Proverbs 25:25

    Ascold waters to a thirsty soul, So is good news from a far country.

  • Hebrews 13:7

    Remember them that had the rule over you, men that spake unto you the word of God; and considering the issue of their life, imitate their faith.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:12

    But we beseech you, brethren, to know them that labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore 1 Corinthians 16

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on 1 Corinthians 16.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to 1 Corinthians 16:18.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary