I Corinthians 16: 10-18
Now if Timothy comes, see that he is with you without cause to be afraid, for he is doing the Lord's work, as I also am.
So let no one despise him.
Timothy was a young man, and Paul didn't want them to think he wasn't qualified to teach. Paul himself had mentored him, and trusted him to be able to teach accurately (see I Timothy 4:12). He was still young, but he was not a new Christian, as his mother and grandmother had taught him the Scriptures since he was a small child, even though his father was a Greek non-believer (II Timothy 1:5). And he had accepted Christ as his Savior and Messiah through Paul's ministry (II Timothy 1:2).
But send him on his way in peace so that he may come to me; for I expect him with the brethren.
Paul wanted him to accompany the Corinthian brothers who would be coming to Paul.
But concerning Apollos our brother, I encouraged him greatly to come to you with the brethren; and it was not at all his desire to come now, but he will come when he has opportunity.
Paul wanted Apollos to go, too, but the timing was not right for him then.
Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
He's telling them to grow up in the faith, and to pay attention to what they need to know and do. Good advice for us all.
Let all that you do be done in love.
Do everything because you care, not because you feel that you have to.
Now I urge you, brethren (you know the household of Stephanus, that they were the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves for ministry to the saints),
They are a good example to follow.
that you also be in subjection to such men and to everyone who helps in the work and labors.
Always be in subjection to one another, especially those who have proven themselves to be faithful workers.
I rejoice over the coming of Stephanus and Fortunatus and Achaichus, because they have supplied what was lacking on your part.
This same Stephanus came along with Fortunatus and Achaichus, bringing the rest of what they were sending to meet Paul's needs.
For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men.
It is refreshing to experience the generosity of God's people, as it also is to be able to be the ones to provide the help. It's a total win-win situation.
And Paul wanted proper recognition for those who had gone above and beyond the daily expectations. We don't do extra stuff for recognition, but for the Lord; but to hear a a "good job" once in a while is very encouraging.
O my Father, help us all to love one another as You have loved us, helping one another in whatever way we are able, praying for one another and giving to one another according to their need and our ability. Always being mindful of how we can consider one another before we consider ourselves.
Father, teach us how to care so much for each another that we are aware of their needs, and how we can help one another, whenever we can, so that the World will see our love for one another and know that Jesus really did come to rescue them, too.
And use us to find and gather all Your lost sheep from every Nation and language and people group, so that Your house will be full.
And every eye shall see, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
