5 Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia. 6 And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go. 7 For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit. 8 But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. 9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries. (1 Corinthians 16:5-9 KJV)
Plans for Travel
In this passage, the apostle explains his plan to visit the Corinthians. He intended to leave Asia (1 Corinthians 16:8, 19), travel through Macedonia into Achaia, where Corinth was, and stay with them for some time, perhaps even the winter (1 Corinthians 16:5-6). Having labored long among them and done much good, he desired to see them again and continue strengthening them if God permitted. A true Christian minister’s heart is always drawn toward the people among whom he has labored successfully. Although some in Corinth opposed him, many loved him as their spiritual father, and he hoped to win over those who resisted him and correct what was out of order in the church. He intended to remain long enough for them to help send him forward on his next journey (3 John 1:6; Titus 3:13). His stay, he hoped, would heal divisions and strengthen their unity in Christ. It was a worthy reason for an apostle to remain where good could be accomplished.
He explains why he could not visit them immediately—it would only be a passing visit (1 Corinthians 16:7). Such a brief meeting would bring little satisfaction or benefit to either side. He preferred to wait until he could stay with them longer, which would be far more profitable for them and more pleasing to himself.
Paul adds that his plans were subject to the will of God: “I trust to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits” (1 Corinthians 16:7). Although he was inspired by the Holy Spirit, he did not know all that God would ordain concerning his travels. His plan to come to Corinth was a personal intention, not a divine command. Therefore, he wisely added the condition, “if the Lord permits.” All our plans should be made with humble submission to God’s providence. As James writes, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that” (James 4:15). It is not within our power to carry out our designs apart from God’s permission and guidance. Even pagan writers acknowledged divine control in human affairs; how much more should Christians recognize and depend upon it.
Paul also declares that he would remain at Ephesus until Pentecost (1 Corinthians 16:8). This shows that he was in Ephesus when writing this letter, as confirmed by his remark, “The churches of Asia greet you” (1 Corinthians 16:19).
He gives the reason for staying there: “Because a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries” (1 Corinthians 16:9). Many were ready to receive the gospel, and God had already blessed his ministry with great success, giving him hope of winning even more souls. For this reason, he resolved to remain at Ephesus. Success in spreading the gospel is a good reason to continue laboring in a place. But this success also drew fierce opposition, for the devil most violently resists those who most effectively work against his kingdom. Yet Paul was not discouraged.
The presence of many adversaries only stirred his zeal and strengthened his courage. True Christian resolve grows stronger under opposition. His enemies sought to stop him and ruin his work, but he refused to retreat. Instead, he pressed on with greater determination. Faithful ministers are not broken by opposition; rather, they are inspired to labor more fervently. What truly discourages them is not hostility from without but hardness and backsliding among those they serve. However, as long as God granted success, Paul’s heart remained bold and his work fruitful, despite the rage of his enemies.