If you are looking for 1 Corinthians 16 Bible study questions, this set is built for a small group, a Sunday class, or personal reflection. Paul closes his letter with practical instructions about money, plans for travel, a call to courage, and personal greetings to the believers in Corinth. The questions below move from what the chapter says, to what it means, to how it shapes daily life.
1 Corinthians 16 at a Glance
The chapter opens with a request for a collection to help believers in Jerusalem, set aside each week so nothing needs to be gathered in a rush when Paul arrives. Paul then describes his travel plans, mentions Timothy and Apollos, and urges the Corinthians to stand firm and to honor the people who have served them faithfully.
The final section is a string of greetings, a warning about those who do not love the Lord, a blessing, and Paul’s own signature. Read it as a letter from a pastor who knows his readers personally, and the questions will make more sense.
Observation Questions
Use these questions first to establish what the text literally says. Ask group members to point to the words in the passage before offering any interpretation, and keep the discussion tied to the page.
1 Corinthians 16:2
On the first day of the week, let each one of you save, as he may prosper, that no collections be made when I come.
(WEB)
Read this verse to introduce the idea of regular, planned giving. It gives the group a clear, practical instruction about the first day of the week and sets up the discussion about generosity that follows.
1 Corinthians 16:9
For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.
(WEB)
This verse shows Paul holding together an open door and real opposition. Reading it aloud helps the group talk honestly about ministry that is both fruitful and difficult.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
13 Watch! Stand firm in the faith! Be courageous! Be strong! 14 Let all that you do be done in love.
(WEB)
These two verses carry the call to courage and the command to love in one breath. Reading them together helps the group see that strength and love belong together in Christian life.
1 Corinthians 16:18
For they refreshed my spirit and yours. Therefore acknowledge those who are like that.
(WEB)
Paul names the refreshment that faithful helpers brought him and the church. Reading this verse invites the group to recall those who have encouraged them.
1 Corinthians 16:22
If any man doesn’t love the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be accursed. Come, Lord!
(WEB)
This verse is among the most striking in the letter and closes Paul’s direct instructions with a cry for the Lord to come. Reading it prompts a short conversation about longing for Christ’s return and the seriousness of loving him.
Memory Verse for 1 Corinthians 16
1 Corinthians 16:14
Let all that you do be done in love.
(WEB)
Memorizing this verse keeps the chapter’s central challenge in view. Repeating it through the week reminds the group that every decision, however small, can be shaped by love for others.
A Closing Prayer for the Group
Father, we thank you for the people who labor among us and for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to plan our giving with faithfulness and to set aside what we can for the good of others, including believers we may never meet. Give us courage to stand firm in the faith, and let everything we do be done in love. Show us where to honor those who serve quietly, and let our words and our welcome refresh the people around us. Keep our hearts watching for your return, and draw us closer to you each day. Amen.
