What qualities make someone worthy of submission according to 1 Corinthians 16:16? Scripture Focus “Now I urge you, brothers, to submit to such as these and to every fellow worker and laborer.” (1 Corinthians 16:16) (See also v. 15: “They have devoted themselves to serving the saints.”) Immediate Take-Aways - Paul tells the church to “submit” to specific people, not to everyone indiscriminately. - The command flows right out of a description of Stephanas and his household. Their character explains why they deserve this attitude from others. Qualities That Invite Submission 1. Devoted Service • “They have devoted themselves to serving the saints.” (v. 15) • Genuine, ongoing commitment to meeting believers’ needs. 2. Proven Faithfulness • Stephanas’s household were “the first converts in Achaia” (v. 15), showing long-term faith and stability. • Longevity in walking with Christ earns trust. 3. Hard-Working Partnership in the Gospel • Paul calls them “fellow worker[s] and laborer[s]” (v. 16). • They don’t merely hold titles; they sweat alongside others for the kingdom. 4. Humble, Servant-Hearted Leadership • Their devotion is to service, not self-promotion. • Biblical submission responds to leaders who themselves submit to Christ and serve His people. Supporting Passages - Philippians 2:29–30 — Epaphroditus is received “with all joy” because he “risked his life” for the work of Christ. - 1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 — Esteem those “who labor among you… and admonish you.” - Hebrews 13:17 — Obey leaders who “keep watch over your souls.” - 1 Peter 5:2–3 — Elders are to shepherd “not lording it over those entrusted” to them. Why These Qualities Matter - Submission is never blind; it responds to Christ-like character. - Leaders marked by service, faithfulness, and hard work reflect the Chief Shepherd (John 10:11). - Such leaders make it a joy—not a burden—for believers to follow (Hebrews 13:17). Living It Out - Look for those whose lives exhibit sacrificial service and partner with them. - Encourage and support faithful laborers; your submission frees them to minister more effectively. - Examine your own leadership: Are these same qualities evident in you? |
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