In what ways can church leaders today emulate the actions in 1 Corinthians 16:18? The Situation Behind the Verse Paul has just mentioned Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus—laymen who traveled from Corinth to Ephesus. About them he writes, “For they refreshed my spirit and yours as well. Show your appreciation, therefore, to such men” (1 Corinthians 16:18). What “Refreshing the Spirit” Looked Like Then • Physical presence: they made the long trip in person, no matter the inconvenience. • Practical aid: likely carried financial support and news from Corinth (cf. 16:17). • Emotional lift: their fellowship cheered Paul’s weary heart (see 2 Corinthians 7:6–7). • Spiritual encouragement: they embodied Christ-like service, modeling 1 Corinthians 15:58. Ways Leaders Today Can Follow Their Example 1. Be Present and Approachable • Make face-to-face visits when possible (Acts 20:20). • Show up in hospital rooms, living rooms, and coffee shops, not only pulpits. 2. Offer Timely Encouragement • Speak specific, Scripture-saturated words that “build up” (Ephesians 4:29). • Celebrate evidence of grace you see in people’s lives (Philippians 1:3–5). 3. Bridge Communities • Carry reliable news between ministries, fostering unity (Colossians 4:7–9). • Introduce believers to one another so gifts can be shared (Romans 1:11–12). 4. Relieve Burdens • Provide tangible help—meals, childcare, financial aid (Galatians 6:2). • Mobilize the body to meet needs swiftly, reflecting Acts 4:34-35. 5. Model Servant Leadership • Take the initiative without waiting for recognition (Mark 10:42-45). • Work quietly, letting the fruit speak for itself (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). 6. Practice Generous Hospitality • Open homes for small groups, missionaries, weary saints (1 Peter 4:9). • Create spaces where believers feel safe to confess, rejoice, and heal. 7. Sustain Prayer Covering • Intercede by name, “struggling” in prayer like Epaphras (Colossians 4:12-13). • Let people know you’re praying; it refreshes their spirit instantly. Cultivating a Culture of Appreciation Paul commands, “Show your appreciation.” Leaders refresh others, but the church must also honor them: • Verbal thanks—public and private (Proverbs 25:11). • Practical gifts—time off, resources, shared ministry load (1 Timothy 5:17-18). • Visible support—standing by them when criticism comes (Hebrews 13:17). Related Passages That Reinforce the Pattern • Philemon 1:7 – “Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.” • 2 Timothy 1:16 – “May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains.” • Proverbs 11:25 – “Whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” A Vision for Everyday Ministry When church leaders step into lives with presence, encouragement, and practical help, they reenact 1 Corinthians 16:18. Hearts are lifted, unity is strengthened, and the church tastes again the refreshment that only Christ can supply through His willing servants. |
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