1 Corinthians 16:17-18 I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have made up for your absence, 18 for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours. Give recognition to such people.
Many early Christians traveled from church to church in Paul’s ministry and mission. We have three names in these verses, but many others are mentioned in Paul’s letters. The Stephanas of v. 17 may be the same whom Paul baptized and whose household was the first to believe in Achaia. If this is the case, then it is possible that the Corinthian church sent these three brothers to Paul or they may have come on their own. Paul heard of trouble in Corinth from “Chloe’s people” (1 Corinthians 1:11), so the relationship of these three and the people from Chloe is unclear. This is the only place where Fortunatus and Achaicus are mentioned. Their coming to Paul has been a positive experience, not like the negative news brought by Chloe’s people. These three brothers “refreshed” Paul’s spirit. This word refers to bringing relief to someone in such a way that revives and renews them. Paul does not say here what they did, but this shows how one’s presence can bring renewal to another person.
Paul wishes he could be with the Corinthians, but these three represented the church and were substitutes for the rest of them. These three also refreshed the spirits of the Corinthians. Evidently, these were people of encouragement. They were positive people who are good to be around. Paul again calls on the Corinthians to look up to people like this. Encouragers set a great example for others. If there were more people like this, the Corinthians would likely not have as many problems of division and selfishness as described in this letter. By acknowledging these three, the Corinthians are looking towards good examples to follow. Being positive people of encouragement can make a big difference in any group, especially among believers and a church.
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