The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Corinthians 16:13-18, “Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
14 Let all that you do be done in love.
15 Now I urge you, brethren (you know the household of Stephanas, that they were the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves for ministry to the saints),
16 that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors.
17 I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part.
18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore, acknowledge such men.

In the previous Grands Letter, you will recall that Paul offered some clarity as to where he was headed and what he would do when he arrived at his destination. He also mentioned some indefinite aspects related to his journey. Over all, however, he encouraged the Corinthian Church as he asked for their prayers and help.

In this portion of his letter, Paul urges the Corinthians not to be “know-it-alls.” The house of Stephanas in Achaia had been the first to commit themselves to the LORD. They were also the primary devotees that led to the conversion of additional people in that area.

Paul then names three others in addition to the Corinthian Church, who
have provided funds for travel and other aspects that the church itself
could not afford. “Acknowledge such men,” Paul says. Surely, he meant
“privately.”

We need to be careful to balance such things. The public naming of such men could be detrimental to the fellowship. Private acknowledgements are excellent; public acknowledgements, however, can foster division.

Some Christian people have a great deal of money. It’s often best that we don’t know who they are or how much they contribute to the LORD’s work. Those who do know should never divulge that knowledge.

In most cases, those who are enabled to give much don’t want it to be known who they are or how much they have given. After all, everything everyone possesses belongs to the LORD, if they belong to Him, too. I pray that you belong to the LORD; so, let all that you do, be done in love and to the Glory of the LORD alone!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom