“Faithful to the Finish”
Reading: 1 Corinthians 16:1–24
After soaring through the breathtaking truths of the resurrection in chapter 15, Paul brings us back to earth in 1 Corinthians 16—not with a thud, but with direction. He transitions from heavenly glory to everyday faithfulness. From the promise of what is to come, to how we are to live in the meantime.
This final chapter reminds us that the Christian life isn’t just about mountaintop moments; it’s about ordinary faithfulness. Paul talks about giving, planning, respecting leaders, supporting one another, and holding fast in love. It’s church life in the trenches—gritty, practical, and deeply spiritual.
We’re called to live with eternity in view, but with our feet firmly planted in the present. That means we steward money with purpose, serve others with joy, make plans with humility, and honour people who quietly carry the load of ministry. Even the simple act of writing a letter, Paul shows, can be a sacred expression of love.
Perhaps the heartbeat of this chapter is summed up in verse 14: “Let all that you do be done in love.” Love isn’t an accessory to Christian living—it is the atmosphere in which all faithfulness grows. Giving, serving, leading, enduring—it all counts for eternity when done in love.
Paul’s final message is not to chase spiritual highs but to stay steady. Finish well. Live with Gospel purpose in every corner of life.
Reflection:
What does “faithful to the finish” look like for you right now? Are you honouring Jesus in the ordinary details of your week?
Prayer:
Lord, help me live out my faith with love and purpose in the everyday. May my life—however ordinary it seems—be shaped by the hope of the resurrection and marked by Gospel faithfulness. Amen.