Big Idea: Because the Christ communities in Corinth serve a Lord whose household stretches around the world, their local communities are members of a global community. With this come special relationships, privileges, and responsibilities for “brothers and sisters” who serve the same Lord (or Patron).

Understanding the Text

Paul has concluded his major discussions and is now rounding out his letter with a series of remarks on issues that just need a brief comment. Before his final remarks and greetings in 16:12–24, Paul underscores the global nature of the Christ community by including an instruction on how to prepare a collection for the poverty-stricken church in Jerusalem (16:1–4), as well as a detailed explanation of his travel plans before he comes to visit Corinth (16:5–11). Indivi…