1 Corinthians 16:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 16:12
12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 16 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, salvation. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 16:12
12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time.
Analysis
As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you—Apollos, the eloquent Alexandrian preacher (Acts 18:24-28), had worked in Corinth and became a focal point for one faction (1 Corinthians 1:12, 3:4-6). Despite the Apollos party's divisiveness, Paul warmly calls him our brother (adelphos, ἀδελφός), rejecting any personal rivalry. Paul strongly encouraged (polla parekalesa, πολλὰ παρεκάλεσα, "I greatly urged") Apollos to return to Corinth.
But his will was not at all to come at this time—Ou pantes ēn thelēma (οὐ πάντως ἦν θέλημα, literally "it was by no means the will") is ambiguous—either Apollos's will or God's will. Most translations favor Apollos's personal decision. His refusal to return suggests wisdom; his presence might inflame factions rather than heal them. But he will come when he shall have convenient time—Eukairēō (εὐκαιρέω, "have opportunity, be convenient") indicates Apollos remained willing but awaited better timing.
Historical Context
Apollos, an Alexandrian Jew trained in Philonic allegorical exegesis and rhetorically gifted, had been instructed more perfectly by Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:26). Though some Corinthians preferred him over Paul, no evidence suggests Apollos encouraged this faction. His refusal to return to Corinth demonstrates maturity and unwillingness to be used divisively. Later tradition says he became bishop of Corinth.
Reflection
- What does Paul's warm commendation of Apollos despite the Apollos faction teach about handling ministry rivalries?
- Why might Apollos wisely refuse to return to Corinth even though Paul urged him to go?
- How do you know when your presence in a situation will help versus inflame existing tensions?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 1:12, 3:5