Christians must be constantly on guard against Satan. He told God he had been busy going “to and fro on the earth,” which goes well with Peter’s description of a roaring lion (Job 1:7; 2:2; 1 Peter 5:8). Paul described the Christian response to this ongoing assault. He encouraged the Corinthian saints to be firm in matters of faith and not let false teachers shake their beliefs, as they had on the resurrection.
He also urged them to be men in the faith and courageously stand in God’s strength. Further, the apostle reminded them that all of a Christian’s actions should be based on love. Loving actions should end all strife (1 Corinthians 16:13-14).
The apostle to the Gentiles directed Christians in Corinth to carefully choose who they followed. He urged them to be subject to those who lovingly ministered to the needs of fellow Christians, especially singling out the family of Stephanas. They had been the first converts in Achaia.
Even Paul needed encouragement. He felt an emptiness because of his separation from the brethren in Corinth. Relief came with the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus. Their coming enabled him to write based upon firsthand knowledge so he could address some of their greatest needs. He wanted the Corinthians to receive them as those who had helped (1 Corinthians 16:15-18).
Remaining faithful is not automatic. We must hold the line like soldiers in battle yet be sure our actions are controlled by love. Each of us must seek out faithful workers to follow. Their destination is Heaven, which is where all God’s children long to go.
