10 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do. 11 Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren. 12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time. (1 Corinthians 16:10-12 KJV)
Commentary
In this passage, the apostle recommends Timothy to the Corinthians in several ways.
He first urges them to ensure that Timothy is among them without fear (1 Corinthians 16:10). Timothy had been sent to correct the abuses that had crept into the church, not only to direct but also to rebuke those who were at fault. The Corinthians were divided into factions, and tensions ran high among them. Some were wealthy and proud of their status and spiritual gifts, and proud people often resist reproof. It was therefore reasonable to think that young Timothy might face hostility. Paul warns them not to treat him harshly. Though Timothy was prepared for difficulties, it was their duty to behave respectfully toward him and not discourage him in the Lord’s work. Christians should accept faithful correction from their ministers and not make it difficult for them to do their duty.
Paul also warns them not to despise Timothy (1 Corinthians 16:11). He was young and alone, which might make some among the Corinthians look down on him, especially those who thought themselves wise. Paul cautions them against such contempt. He did not distrust Timothy’s conduct, for he knew that Timothy would act with integrity and avoid anything that might make him appear foolish. But because pride was common among the Corinthians, this warning was necessary. Christians should be careful not to despise anyone, especially faithful ministers of Christ. Whether young or old, such servants are to be highly respected for their work’s sake (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).
Paul further instructs them to give Timothy all possible encouragement, treat him well while he is with them, and send him away in peace as a sign of their goodwill (1 Corinthians 16:11). Faithful ministers should not only be well received where they serve but also sent away with kindness and respect.
He then gives reasons for this behavior. Timothy was engaged in the same work as Paul and acted under the same divine authority (1 Corinthians 16:10). He did not come merely on Paul’s errand, but to do the Lord’s work. Though not an apostle, he was an assistant to one and was sent by divine commission. To vex or despise him would be to offend the Holy Spirit and dishonor the Lord who sent him. Those who do the work of the Lord should be treated with respect and not discouraged or despised. All faithful ministers of the gospel, regardless of rank, deserve honor as they carry out their calling (1 Timothy 5:17).
Another reason implied is that they should esteem Timothy for Paul’s sake as well as for his work’s sake. Paul had sent him to Corinth to carry out the Lord’s work. “Conduct him forth in peace, that he may come to me,” Paul writes, “for I look for him with the brethren” (1 Corinthians 16:11). In other words, Paul and his companions were waiting for Timothy’s return and would judge from his report how the Corinthians had treated him. They should ensure that Timothy returned with a good report, not one that would grieve Paul. Having benefited from Paul’s ministry and authority, the Corinthians were obliged to treat his messenger with the same respect.
Paul also informs them about Apollos’s intentions. He says that he had strongly urged Apollos to visit them (1 Corinthians 16:12). Though one faction in Corinth had declared for Apollos against Paul (1 Corinthians 1:12), Paul did not resent him or prevent his visit. Instead, he encouraged him to go, showing that he bore no jealousy toward his fellow minister. Faithful ministers should not be suspicious of one another or think ill of their brethren. True Christian love “thinks no evil” (1 Corinthians 13:5), and it should especially dwell in the hearts of Christ’s servants.
However, Apollos was unwilling to visit them at that time but planned to come later when the opportunity was more suitable. Perhaps their divisions made the present moment unwise for a visit. He did not want to appear as the head of a party or seem to encourage their contentious spirit. When peace and order were restored through Paul’s letter and Timothy’s ministry, he would visit them more appropriately. Paul’s willingness to send Apollos shows his sincere concern for the Corinthians, even after they had mistreated him. Apollos, by declining to go until the Corinthians were more receptive, showed his respect for Paul and his desire to preserve Paul’s authority. It is fitting for ministers of the gospel to care for each other’s reputation and usefulness, seeking harmony and mutual respect in their service to Christ.