1 Corinthians 16:18

Authorized King James Version

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For they have refreshed my spirit and your's: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.

Original Language Analysis

ἀνέπαυσαν they have refreshed G373
ἀνέπαυσαν they have refreshed
Strong's: G373
Word #: 1 of 12
(reflexively) to repose (literally or figuratively (be exempt), remain); by implication, to refresh
γὰρ For G1063
γὰρ For
Strong's: G1063
Word #: 2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τὸ G3588
τὸ
Strong's: G3588
Word #: 3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐμὸν my G1699
ἐμὸν my
Strong's: G1699
Word #: 4 of 12
my
πνεῦμα spirit G4151
πνεῦμα spirit
Strong's: G4151
Word #: 5 of 12
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
καὶ and G2532
καὶ and
Strong's: G2532
Word #: 6 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸ G3588
τὸ
Strong's: G3588
Word #: 7 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὑμῶν yours G5216
ὑμῶν yours
Strong's: G5216
Word #: 8 of 12
of (from or concerning) you
ἐπιγινώσκετε acknowledge ye G1921
ἐπιγινώσκετε acknowledge ye
Strong's: G1921
Word #: 9 of 12
to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge
οὖν therefore G3767
οὖν therefore
Strong's: G3767
Word #: 10 of 12
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
τοὺς G3588
τοὺς
Strong's: G3588
Word #: 11 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοιούτους them that are such G5108
τοιούτους them that are such
Strong's: G5108
Word #: 12 of 12
truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)

Analysis & Commentary

For they have refreshed my spirit and your's—Anepausan to emon pneuma kai to hymōn (ἀνέπαυσαν τὸ ἐμὸν πνεῦμα καὶ τὸ ὑμῶν, "they refreshed my spirit and yours"). Anapauō (ἀναπαύω, "give rest, refresh") suggests restoration from weariness. Paul's spirit found rest through their fellowship and their report of Corinthian faithfulness in some areas. Remarkably, Paul says they also refreshed the Corinthians' spirit—perhaps by representing the congregation to Paul, healing the relational breach caused by distance and problems.

Therefore acknowledge ye them that are such—Epiginōskō (ἐπιγινώσκω, "recognize, acknowledge, appreciate"). The Corinthians should officially recognize and honor faithful servants. In a church valuing eloquence and charisma, Paul insists on honoring those who labor quietly—visiting, serving, representing, refreshing. Ministry involves both spectacular gifts (prophecy, tongues) and mundane faithfulness (traveling, reporting, encouraging).

Historical Context

The concept of "refreshing the spirit" reflects ancient hospitality culture, where receiving guests was sacred duty and providing rest to weary travelers was honored. Philemon 1:7 uses similar language: "For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother." Christian fellowship provided emotional and spiritual renewal in a hostile world.

Questions for Reflection

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