1 Corinthians 16:7
For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit.
Original Language Analysis
θέλω
I will
G2309
θέλω
I will
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
2 of 19
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
3 of 19
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἰδεῖν
see
G1492
ἰδεῖν
see
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
8 of 19
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
χρόνον
G5550
χρόνον
Strong's:
G5550
Word #:
11 of 19
a space of time (in general, and thus properly distinguished from g2540, which designates a fixed or special occasion; and from g0165, which denotes a
ἐπιμεῖναι
to tarry
G1961
ἐπιμεῖναι
to tarry
Strong's:
G1961
Word #:
13 of 19
to stay over, i.e., remain (figuratively, persevere)
πρὸς
with
G4314
πρὸς
with
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
14 of 19
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,
ἐὰν
if
G1437
ἐὰν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
16 of 19
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
17 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Acts 18:21But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I will return again unto you, if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.1 Corinthians 4:19But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power.James 4:15For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.Proverbs 19:21There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.Jeremiah 10:23O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.Romans 1:10Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.2 Corinthians 1:15And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a second benefit;
Historical Context
This tentative language reflects both Paul's theological convictions about providence and his past experiences of altered plans due to persecution, illness, or divine redirection (Acts 16:6-7). Ancient Stoics valued indifference to outcomes, but Christian providence involves active planning while submitting to God's will.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul refuse a brief visit in favor of extended time, and what does this teach about superficial versus substantial ministry?
- How do you practice the discipline of saying 'if the Lord permits' without it becoming empty religious jargon?
- What's the difference between being flexible to God's will and being indecisive or lacking planning wisdom?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For I will not see you now by the way—Arti parerchomenos (ἄρτι παρερχόμενος, "now passing by") indicates Paul refused a brief stopover visit. He wanted substantial time to address Corinth's numerous problems (divisions, immorality, litigation, worship disorders, doctrinal confusion). A hurried visit would accomplish nothing and might even worsen relationships.
But I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit—Chronon tina (χρόνον τινα, "some time") contrasts with a passing visit. The conditional clause if the Lord permit (ean ho kyrios epitrepsē, ἐὰν ὁ κύριος ἐπιτρέψῃ) reflects Paul's constant acknowledgment of divine sovereignty over human plans. James 4:15 commands the same attitude: "If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that."