1 Corinthians 16:17
I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied.
Original Language Analysis
χαίρω
I am glad
G5463
χαίρω
I am glad
Strong's:
G5463
Word #:
1 of 16
to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
ἐπὶ
of
G1909
ἐπὶ
of
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
3 of 16
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
παρουσίᾳ
the coming
G3952
παρουσίᾳ
the coming
Strong's:
G3952
Word #:
5 of 16
a being near, i.e., advent (often, return; specially, of christ to punish jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physically, aspect
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὅτι
for that
G3754
ὅτι
for that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
11 of 16
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
2 Corinthians 11:9And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.Philippians 2:30Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.Philemon 1:13Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
Historical Context
Ancient letters were typically hand-delivered by trusted messengers who also answered questions and provided oral elaboration. Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus fulfilled this role, serving as living extensions of the Corinthian church. Their willingness to make the dangerous journey from Corinth to Ephesus (approximately 250 miles, requiring sea travel) demonstrated devotion to Paul and concern for their church's welfare.
Questions for Reflection
- How did Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus 'supply' what was lacking—information, fellowship, encouragement?
- What does their willingness to travel to Paul teach about the importance of personal presence versus written communication?
- How do modern churches maintain personal connection with distant ministry partners and missionaries?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus—Chairō epi tē parousia (χαίρω ἐπὶ τῇ παρουσίᾳ, "I rejoice at the coming"). Parousia (παρουσία), often used for Christ's second coming, here simply means "arrival, presence." These three men traveled from Corinth to Ephesus, likely bearing the Corinthians' letter (7:1) and oral reports.
For that which was lacking on your part they have supplied—To hymōn hysterēma houtoi aneplērōsan (τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα οὗτοι ἀνεπλήρωσαν, "your lack these men have filled up"). Hysterēma (ὑστέρημα, "deficiency, lack") refers either to information about Corinthian problems or to personal fellowship Paul missed. Philippians 2:30 uses similar language for Epaphroditus supplying what the Philippians couldn't give in person. These delegates embodied the congregation, making Paul's separation from Corinth more bearable.