Watch, Stand Firm, Love

The last chapter turns to practical plans, but they are tied to Paul's teaching. His collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem showed the unity of Jewish and Gentile believers. He asks for regular giving on the first day of the week, the day believers met to honor the risen Lord. He sends approved people to carry the gift, so it is handled with integrity.

Paul's travel plans show both opportunity and opposition. In Ephesus a great door had opened, and there were many adversaries. He asks the Corinthians to receive Timothy, a younger co-worker, with respect. Some had used Apollos as a party banner. Paul had urged him to visit, and he would come later. This shows that the two leaders were not rivals. He honors Stephanas and his household for appointing themselves to serve the saints.

Paul's closing commands echo the letter's themes. Believers must be watchful against error, stand firm, act with courage, and be strong. Yet strength must be shown in love, the central theme of chapters 8 to 14. Paul writes the last greeting with his own hand. He adds a solemn warning, cries out for the Lord to come, and closes with grace and love to all of them in Christ Jesus.