Paul’s style is to end his epistles with practical advices after simplifying the theological words that were the content of his epistle.
In the first epistle to the Corinthians, he starts the last part by saying: “Be on your guard” which means “have vigilance” during the discomforts that the Church faces. Be boisterous, do not compromise with those that are out of our faith; do not mess with sin. Don’t sacrifice anything in faith because every single thing in it is important.
Strive like men that are known to be powerful. Paul doesn’t forget that our power comes from the Holy Spirit but also mentions that we take part with the Holy Spirit in our struggle. God offers salvation and we accept it. After that, Paul doesn’t forget that the core of Christian life is love.
Moreover, the apostle mentions believers that are prominent in service. What does it mean to say that the household of Stephen (his family) “devoted themselves for the service of the Lord’s people”? We cannot confirm that Stephen is a deacon or a clergyman. In this epistle, it isn’t clear if Paul mentions priests or bishops. However, Stephen is at least an active person or a speaker, and Paul also mentions others and honors them “for they have refreshed my spirit and yours also”.
“The Churches in the province of Asia send you greetings”. Using the plural form indicates that he is speaking about several cities next to Ephesus. This proves that Paul, while living in Ephesus for more than two years, has preached the whole region.
Then, he mentions Aquila and his wife Priscilla who played a big role in establishing the Church of Corinth. He delivers their greetings and also mentions the Church that meets at their house and this means that wherever they were, the community meets and have the Divine Liturgy at their house.
“Greet one another with a holy kiss”. This expression is found in more than one epistle and probably refers to the kiss that believers practiced in the Liturgy. Today, this kiss is only practiced among the servants of the altar.
“I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand”. Paul used to dictate what he wants to write to a writer that accompanies him. However, here Paul takes the pen himself to confirm to his readers that he personally loves and remembers them.
He moves on and says: “If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed”, i.e. cut from the membership of the Church. Being a member in Church requires a practical love for Lord Jesus.
Finally, he says “Maran Atha” which is an Aramaic expression that Paul wanted to preserve in Greek Letters. It means “the Lord has come” or if you read it “Marana Tha”, then it means “Come, Lord”.
Translated by Mark Najjar
Original Text: “خاتمة كورنثوس الأولى” –Raiati 36- 02.09.2012
