1 Corinthians 16:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 16:5
5 Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 16 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, mercy, worship. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 16:5
5 Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia.
Analysis
Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia—Paul's travel plans, mentioned frequently in his letters, reveal his strategic thinking and pastoral concern. He intended to visit Corinth after passing through Macedonia (northern Greece, including Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea). The verb dierchomai (διέρχομαι, "pass through") suggests a journey involving multiple stops, not a direct route.
For I do pass through Macedonia—The present tense verb emphasizes Paul's settled intention. However, 2 Corinthians 1:15-17 reveals Paul changed these plans, resulting in accusations of fickleness. His defense shows even apostolic plans remain subject to divine providence and pastoral wisdom, not carved in stone.
Historical Context
Paul wrote 1 Corinthians from Ephesus (16:8) around AD 53-54 during his three-year ministry there (Acts 19:10, 20:31). His planned route—Ephesus to Macedonia to Corinth—reflects the geography of his third missionary journey. He wanted to spend extended time in Corinth addressing their problems, not make a brief, painful visit.
Reflection
- What does Paul's openness about travel plans reveal about his relationship with the Corinthian church?
- How should Christian leaders balance making plans with remaining flexible to God's providence?
- When pastoral plans change, how can leaders maintain credibility while adapting to circumstances?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 4:19, Acts 19:21