1 Corinthians 16:6
And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go.
Original Language Analysis
πρὸς
with
G4314
πρὸς
with
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
1 of 15
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
τυχὸν
it may be
G5177
τυχὸν
it may be
Strong's:
G5177
Word #:
4 of 15
akin to the base of g5088 through the idea of effecting; properly, to affect; or (specially), to hit or light upon (as a mark to be reached), i.e., (t
παραμενῶ
that I will abide
G3887
παραμενῶ
that I will abide
Strong's:
G3887
Word #:
5 of 15
to stay near, i.e., remain (literally, tarry; or figuratively, be permanent, persevere)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
παραχειμάσω
winter
G3914
παραχειμάσω
winter
Strong's:
G3914
Word #:
8 of 15
to winter near, i.e., stay with over the rainy season
προπέμψητε
may bring
G4311
προπέμψητε
may bring
Strong's:
G4311
Word #:
12 of 15
to send forward, i.e., escort or aid in travel
Cross References
Acts 15:3And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.Romans 15:24Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.
Historical Context
Winter posed severe travel dangers in antiquity. Paul's shipwreck (Acts 27) occurred partly because sailors attempted to reach a better wintering harbor. By planning to winter in Corinth, Paul demonstrated his commitment to thorough pastoral care rather than superficial visits. Ancient hospitality codes made supporting traveling teachers an honor and obligation.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Paul's willingness to spend months in Corinth reveal about effective ministry—is it more about brief interventions or sustained presence?
- How does the mutual support model (Paul ministers, Corinth supplies) shape healthy church-minister relationships?
- What modern equivalents exist for 'bringing missionaries on their journey' with provision and support?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you—Ancient Mediterranean travel ceased during winter due to dangerous seas and impassable mountain roads. Paul hoped to spend the approximately five-month winter season (November-March) in Corinth, allowing extended ministry rather than a brief visit. Paracheimazō (παραχειμάζω, "winter") occurs only here and in Acts 27:12 and 28:11, both describing winter harboring during Paul's shipwreck voyage.
That ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go—Propempō (προπέμπω, "bring on journey") means to provide escorts, supplies, and letters of introduction—comprehensive support for traveling missionaries. Paul expected mutual ministry: he would edify Corinth, and they would facilitate his next mission phase. Christian community involves both receiving and giving.