1 Corinthians 16:4
And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me.
Original Language Analysis
ἐὰν
if
G1437
ἐὰν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
1 of 10
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
ᾖ
it be
G5600
ᾖ
it be
Strong's:
G5600
Word #:
3 of 10
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κἀμὲ
also
G2504
κἀμὲ
also
Strong's:
G2504
Word #:
6 of 10
so also the dative case ????? <pronunciation strongs="kam-oy'"/>, and accusative case ???? <pronunciation strongs="kam-eh'"/> and (or also, even, etc.
πορεύσονται
that I go
G4198
πορεύσονται
that I go
Strong's:
G4198
Word #:
7 of 10
to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)
Historical Context
Paul's journey to Jerusalem with the collection (AD 57) resulted in his arrest and eventual martyrdom in Rome. The dramatic narrative in Acts 21-28 shows how God used even Paul's imprisonment to advance the gospel to Rome and Caesar's household. The collection, representing years of effort and sacrifice, became instrumental in God's providence.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Paul's conditional language ("if it be meet") teach about holding ministry plans with an open hand?
- How does the multi-church delegation model transparency and unity in ministry?
- Considering Paul's arrest in Jerusalem, how do you reconcile faithful obedience with disastrous outcomes?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And if it be meet that I go also—Axios (ἄξιος, "meet") means "worthy" or "fitting." Paul remained uncertain whether his personal presence in Jerusalem would be appropriate or beneficial. His humility contrasts with modern ministry celebrity culture; Paul subordinated personal involvement to what best served the mission. He ultimately did travel to Jerusalem with the delegation (Acts 20:4, 21:15-17), where he was arrested, fulfilling his premonition that "bonds and afflictions" awaited him (Acts 20:23).
They shall go with me—The plural pronoun emphasizes corporate witness. Multiple representatives from various Gentile churches traveled together (Acts 20:4 lists Sopater, Aristarchus, Secundus, Gaius, Timothy, Tychicus, and Trophimus), embodying the unity of the multiethnic church and ensuring transparency.