1 Corinthians 16:4
What does 1 Corinthians 16:4 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 16:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Corinthians 16:4 means
Paul leaves open the possibility that he might personally accompany the gift, if that proves fitting. His language shows flexibility and deference to what is prudent and beneficial for the churches. If he goes, the chosen representatives will travel with him; if not, they go with his letters. Either way, the project will not hinge on his presence but on communal responsibility and sound procedure. Paul’s willingness to submit his own travel to what is “meet” models humble leadership. He participates without commandeering, underscoring that the offering’s integrity and the saints’ welfare—not personal prominence—are the priority.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000and if it be meet for me to go also, they shall go with me.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901and if it be meet for me to go also, they shall go with me.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And if it is possible for me to go there, they will go with me.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and if it be meet for me also to go, with me they shall go.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And if it be meet that I also go, they shall go with me.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890and if it be suitable that I also should go, they shall go with me.
Context
This verse completes the instructions about the Jerusalem collection (vv.1–3) by noting Paul’s possible participation. With the gift’s process settled—steady gathering, approved couriers, and potential apostolic accompaniment—Paul turns next to his broader itinerary (vv.5–9). He will explain why his visit to Corinth is delayed and how present opportunities and opposition in Ephesus shape his timing. This transition keeps the chapter’s theme of orderly, transparent ministry before the readers.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Corinthians 8:19
and not only so, but who was also appointed by the churches to travel with us in the matter of this grace, which is ministered by us to the glory of the Lord, and to show our readiness:
- 2 Corinthians 8:4
beseeching us with much entreaty in regard of this grace and the fellowship in the ministering to the saints:
- Romans 15:25
but now, I say, I go unto Jerusalem, ministering unto the saints.
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