http://biblebitbybit.blogspot.com/2016/01/1-corinthians-16-v-15-16.html
Posted by 1 Corinthians on Saturday, 16 January 2016
1 Corinthians 16:15-16
(15) I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)
(16) That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth.
16:15-16. Achaia was the Roman province extending over central and southern Greece of which Corinth was the capital. Those in the household of Stephanas were among the first converts in the region (cf. Acts 17:34, for some in Athens believed), and they were among those who assumed responsibility for the general welfare of the church. Sometimes Paul appointed elders (Acts 14:23) but in this instance members of Stephanas’ household voluntarily took on the responsibility (cf. 1 Tim. 3:1). Paul recognized their position as ordained by God and urged others to submit to them. As an aside, it may be said that this text argues strongly against the view that infants were in view when a household was referred to. It is difficult to see how infants could be of service to the saints. One primary qualification for church leadership was a willingness to serve (cf. Matt. 23:11; Luke 22:26). To those who labored with this spirit, submission on the part of others in the church was due.
Excerpt from:
Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-c1985).
The Bible Knowledge Commentary : An Exposition of the Scriptures.
Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
