King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 16:6 Mean?

1 Corinthians 16:6 in the King James Version says “And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go. — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go.

1 Corinthians 16:6 · KJV


Context

4

And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me.

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.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you—Ancient Mediterranean travel ceased during winter due to dangerous seas and impassable mountain roads. Paul hoped to spend the approximately five-month winter season (November-March) in Corinth, allowing extended ministry rather than a brief visit. Paracheimazō (παραχειμάζω, "winter") occurs only here and in Acts 27:12 and 28:11, both describing winter harboring during Paul's shipwreck voyage.

That ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I goPropempō (προπέμπω, "bring on journey") means to provide escorts, supplies, and letters of introduction—comprehensive support for traveling missionaries. Paul expected mutual ministry: he would edify Corinth, and they would facilitate his next mission phase. Christian community involves both receiving and giving.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Winter posed severe travel dangers in antiquity. Paul's shipwreck (Acts 27) occurred partly because sailors attempted to reach a better wintering harbor. By planning to winter in Corinth, Paul demonstrated his commitment to thorough pastoral care rather than superficial visits. Ancient hospitality codes made supporting traveling teachers an honor and obligation.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Paul's willingness to spend months in Corinth reveal about effective ministry—is it more about brief interventions or sustained presence?
  2. How does the mutual support model (Paul ministers, Corinth supplies) shape healthy church-minister relationships?
  3. What modern equivalents exist for 'bringing missionaries on their journey' with provision and support?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
πρὸς1 of 15

with

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ὑμᾶς2 of 15

you

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

δὲ3 of 15

And

G1161

but, and, etc

τυχὸν4 of 15

it may be

G5177

akin to the base of g5088 through the idea of effecting; properly, to affect; or (specially), to hit or light upon (as a mark to be reached), i.e., (t

παραμενῶ5 of 15

that I will abide

G3887

to stay near, i.e., remain (literally, tarry; or figuratively, be permanent, persevere)

6 of 15

yea

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

καὶ7 of 15

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

παραχειμάσω8 of 15

winter

G3914

to winter near, i.e., stay with over the rainy season

ἵνα9 of 15

that

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ὑμεῖς10 of 15

ye

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

με11 of 15

me

G3165

me

προπέμψητε12 of 15

may bring

G4311

to send forward, i.e., escort or aid in travel

οὗ13 of 15

whithersoever

G3757

at which place, i.e., where

ἐὰν14 of 15
G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

πορεύωμαι15 of 15

I go

G4198

to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Corinthians 16:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Corinthians 16:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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