1 Corinthians 16:13-24

 13Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 14Do
everything in love.
 15You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia,
and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. I urge you, brothers,
16to submit to such as these and to everyone who joins in the work, and labors at
it. 17I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they
have supplied what was lacking from you. 18For they refreshed my spirit and
yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
Final Greetings
 19The churches in the province of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Priscilla
greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house.
20All the brothers here send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
 21I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand.
 22If anyone does not love the Lord—a curse be on him. Come, O Lord!
 23The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.
 24My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Meditation
1. The Corinthian Church has many problems.  Paul, with much love and
courage, pointed out principles and methods to deal with these problems and
urged them to go back to Christ.  I Corinthians taught us that Unity and
Love in church is far more important than leadership and reputation.
2. In these final instructions to the Christians at Corinth, Paul first charges
them to let all that they do “be done in love”(v14) and then to put themselves
“at the service” of such people as the household of Stephanas.
3. Loving service to the saints seems to be the norm, not the exception.  In what
ways have I “served the saints” during the past year?  In what ways can I serve
them in the future?  What could I serve in this week or this month?  Lord,
show me and I will obey.

Personal Note:
What is my motivation behind serving as a pastor?  Is it for the purpose of reputation and respect?  Is it for the purpose of making money to put food on the table?  My only valid purpose and motivation is the love of Jesus Christ.  Unity and love in the church is far more important than leadership and reputation.

I see that spiritual leaders who are being blessings to the world have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.  I can stand firm in faith and be a man of courage when I am overflowing with God's love.  I am to serve the church by being faithful to the call of developing disciples in the English ministry in PGC.