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THE HOUSEHOLD OF STEPHANAS-THE FIRSTFRUITS OF ACHAIA

Text: 1 Corinthians 16:15-18
19 July 2009

(I) COMMENDATION GIVEN OUT- CATEGORIES

1. Individuals

2. Men and Women

3. Family of Stephanas especially mentioned

“I urge you brethren- you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints-that you should also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labours with us.I am glad about the coming of Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus, for what was lacking on your part, they supplied. For they have refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge such men” 1 Corinthians 16:15-18

(II) COMMENDATION OF STEPHANAS AND HIS HOUSEHOLD

1. A whole household

2. A wonderful example upheld

3. Given the privilege of the phrase “Firstfruits of Achaia”

a) In terms of “order” (first)

b) In terms of “fruit”

(III) CONTENT OF COMMENDATION

1. To devote (tasso)

a) To fix mind on doing something (frame of mind)

b) To arrange or appoint (planning)

c) To execute plans

2. Ministry to the saints

a) Phrase (in the Greek text) simply says “to the saints”

b) Implications to be carefully considered

(IV) PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

1. Paul was a beneficiary of Stephanas’ ministry

2. There was a lack on the part of the Corinthians (“husterema”) (1 Corinthians 16:17b)

3. Stephanas filled that lack (physical/ material assistance) (1 Corinthians 16:17b)

4. Paul exclaims his joy at the thought of Stephanas (1 Corinthians 16:17a)

(V) HONOURING OF STEPHANAS

1. Know such people (“oida”) (1 Corinthians 16:15a)

2. Acknowledge such people (1 Corinthians 16:18b)

(VI) OUR CHALLENGE

1. To cultivate such a household

2. To consider the “ministry to the saints”