closing thoughts

Good morning church,
Today we hear Paul's closing message to the church in Corinth. Like he usually does, he sends greetings to particular leaders in the church, which reinforces how interconnected the early church was. He also lifts up some of their leaders, like Stephanus, as examples for others to follow. He also reminds them that love is the most important part of the Christian life. The somewhat odd line: "I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand," reminds us that Paul didn't physically write the bulk of these letters. Instead, he probably dictated for someone with great handwriting to write. Often, he used his own handwriting for the closing words of a letter as a personal touch, kind of like hand signing a letter we have typed. So as we leave this letter behind, let's take his closing words to bless us for the day with the grace of Jesus Christ.

May you feel Christ's grace with you all day,
Sam

1 Corinthians 16:13-24

13Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. 14Let all that you do be done in love. 15Now, brothers and sisters, you know that members of the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints; 16I urge you to put yourselves at the service of such people, and of everyone who works and toils with them. 17I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have made up for your absence; 18for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours. So give recognition to such persons.


19The churches of Asia send greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, greet you warmly in the Lord. 20All the brothers and sisters send greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. 21I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. 22Let anyone be accursed who has no love for the Lord. Our Lord, come! 23The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. 24My love be with all of you in Christ Jesus.