1 Corinthians 16 - Communication and Generosity

1 Corinthians 16 - Final Words from Paul: Love, Planning, and ConnectionIn this episode, we explore the final chapter of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians—a chapter often overlooked but filled with meaningful instructions, heartfelt relationships, and enduring spiritual lessons.Paul closes this letter with personal plans, a request for generosity, and encouragement to stay united in love. We reflect on how Paul’s final words reveal the heart of a shepherd—concerned not just with theology, but with the people he leads, the relationships he nurtures, and the practical help he organizes across the early church. 1. Generosity as a LifestylePaul encourages the Corinthian church to take up a collection for the struggling believers in Jerusalem. This wasn’t a one-time emotional appeal—it was structured, intentional, and modeled after other churches like Galatia. This teaches us how to be proactive and faithful in our giving.2. Ministry in MotionPaul shares his travel plans—not as a side note, but to show how he makes ministry decisions through a mix of opportunity and opposition. His stay in Ephesus, despite resistance, demonstrates that a wide door of effective work often comes with challenges.3. Relational LeadershipPaul names his partners in ministry and appreciates the refreshment they bring. He stays connected, delegates ministry, and makes others feel seen and valued. This is a model for spiritual leadership based on teamwork and encouragement.4. Love Above AllThe final note is love—echoing the great theme of chapter 13. Paul ends not with commands, but with affection. His love for the Corinthian church is the thread that holds this entire letter together.Takeaways:This chapter reminds me how intentional Paul was in everything—from planning his journey to nurturing generosity and authentic relationships. It’s also a powerful challenge: if Paul could stay connected and build up churches with parchment and couriers, how much more can we do with the tools at our fingertips?Ministry is more than speaking truth—it’s living out love, staying connected, and showing up consistently. Paul reminds us not to neglect spiritual relationships and to use what we have for God’s kingdom. It’s not always convenient, but it’s always worth it. Download blank templates, schedules here:https://schmern2.notion.site/schmern2/The-Bible-in-Small-Steps-b99ab90118b3433bab73c488ef44d4d1 Logos RAMPS Workflowhttps://flshare.net/p86nc4 Jill’s Linkshttps://jillfromthenorthwoods.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@smallstepswithgodpodcast https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at [e-mail] “Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.” Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. “The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved”. Bible Maps and images used with permission from https://www.bible.ca/maps/ or https://www.freebibleimages.org/illustrations/bj-ot-world/ By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.