1 Corinthians 16:15 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 16:15 mean?

1 Corinthians 16:15 means that Paul is urging the believers in Corinth to recognize and respect the household of Stephanas, who were among the first people in Achaia to become Christians and who have devoted themselves to serving other believers. Paul highlights their commitment to helping fellow Christians as something noteworthy.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing them as "brethren" (fellow believers). He points out that the family of Stephanas was the "firstfruits"—the earliest converts—in the region of Achaia (southern Greece). Paul notes that they have "addicted themselves" (given themselves fully) to serving the needs of the saints, meaning other Christians, and he urges the church to acknowledge and honor this example of dedication.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 16:15

• "firstfruits" (ἀπαρχή, aparchē): This word refers to the first part of a harvest offered to God, and here it means Stephanas’s household were the first people in Achaia to believe in Jesus. Paul uses this term to show their special place in the church’s beginnings.
• "addicted" (τάσσω, tassō): The Greek word here means to appoint, devote, or assign oneself to something. Paul is pointing out that Stephanas’s household made a deliberate choice to dedicate themselves to serving other Christians, not just helping occasionally.
• "ministry" (διακονία, diakonia): This word means service, especially practical help or support for others. It emphasizes that their devotion was not just spiritual but involved real acts of care for the needs of the Christian community.

Why 1 Corinthians 16:15 matters

• This verse clears up that Christian service is not just for leaders or apostles; ordinary believers like Stephanas’s household can set a powerful example by dedicating themselves to helping others.
• Paul’s mention of the "firstfruits" highlights the importance of early believers in spreading the faith and building up the church, showing that their ongoing service is just as important as their initial conversion.
• By urging the church to recognize such people, Paul is teaching the community to value and honor those who quietly serve, not just those in visible leadership roles.