Ministering to the Saints
W. E. Hurndall, M.A. 1 Corinthians 16:15-18 I beseech you, brothers, (you know the house of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia… I. A VERY NEEDFUL WORK. Many of God's children are poor, and need the necessaries of life; many are afflicted, and need sympathy; many are weak, and need taking by the hand (Galatians 6:10). II. A VERY HONOURABLE AND BEAUTIFUL WORK. 1. Angel-like (Hebrews 1:14). 2. Christ-like (Matthew 20:28; Matthew 25:40). III. A WORK THAT MAY BE EXERCISED IN MANY WAYS. Thus it is suited to all. IV. A WORK THAT MERITS RECOGNITION ON THE PART OF THE CHURCH. Those so engaged should be — 1. Highly esteemed. They do much to elevate the tone of the Church; much to preserve it in peace and content; much to stimulate its zeal. 2. Encouraged. The work is trying. Those who encourage others often want much encouragement themselves. 3. Aided. This is probably what the apostle meant in ver. 16. "As they serve you, serve them." V. A WORK VERY BENEFICIAL TO THE WORKERS. "They who water others shall themselves be watered." We grow rich by bestowing. A sure way of getting to heaven is to get others there. (W. E. Hurndall, M.A.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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,) WEB: Now I beg you, brothers (you know the house of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have set themselves to serve the saints),