1 Corinthians 16:11 – “No one, then, should treat him with contempt. Send him on his way in peace so that he may return to me. I am expecting him along with the brothers.”

Extended Explanation

Paul is continuing to talk about Timothy, his young co-worker in the gospel. In the previous verse (1 Corinthians 16:10), Paul told the Corinthians to make sure Timothy had nothing to fear while he was with them. Now, Paul takes it further—he commands them not to treat Timothy with contempt and to send him back in peace so he can return to Paul.

The word “contempt” suggests that some people in Corinth might have been tempted to look down on Timothy. This could be because of his youth, lack of experience, or different personality from Paul. But Paul makes it clear—Timothy is to be respected, not dismissed.

Paul also instructs them to send him on his way in peace. This likely means they should support him as he travels back—providing for his needs, praying for him, and treating him with kindness. Paul ends by saying that he is expecting Timothy along with the brothers, showing that Timothy is part of an important mission.

Historical Context

At this time, Timothy was a young pastor and missionary, serving alongside Paul. Paul had met Timothy during his travels (Acts 16:1-3) and quickly saw his potential. Even though Timothy was young and possibly timid (2 Timothy 1:7), Paul trusted him to do important ministry work.

The Corinthian church was known for its pride and divisions. Some people in Corinth had already questioned Paul’s authority (1 Corinthians 4:18-21), so it’s likely they would have had an even harder time respecting Timothy, who was younger and less experienced.

Timothy’s journey involved traveling long distances and dealing with difficult people. That’s why Paul urged the Corinthians to treat him well and provide for him as he continued his mission.

Theological Implications

1. Respect for God’s Servants – Paul makes it clear that those who serve God should be honored, not looked down upon. No one is too young or too inexperienced if God has called them.

2. Encouraging and Supporting Leaders – Instead of being critical or dismissive, Christians should support and uplift those who are serving in ministry.

3. The Church as a Sending Community – The early church didn’t just receive ministers; they also sent them forward with blessing and provision. Every believer has a role in supporting God’s work, whether by going or by sending.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is both firm and instructive:

• “No one, then, should treat him with contempt.” – This is a command, not a suggestion. Paul is serious about how Timothy should be treated.
• “Send him on his way in peace.” – This phrase implies blessing and support. The Corinthians were responsible for making sure Timothy left strengthened, not discouraged.
• “I am expecting him along with the brothers.” – Paul is reminding them that Timothy is not alone—he is part of a larger mission.

Paul’s direct and fatherly tone in this verse shows his deep concern for Timothy and his desire to see the Corinthians grow in respect and generosity.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers.”
• 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.”
• Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
• Hebrews 13:17 – “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account.”
• 3 John 1:6-8 – The early church was encouraged to support and send off ministers in a manner worthy of God.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Respect those who serve in ministry. Whether it’s a pastor, missionary, or church leader, believers should honor and support those who work for the gospel.

2. Don’t judge people by worldly standards. Timothy may have been young, but God had called him, and Paul expected the Corinthians to respect that. Christians should be careful not to look down on others based on age, personality, or experience.

3. Be a blessing to those who serve. Paul wanted the Corinthians to send Timothy on his way in peace—not with stress, criticism, or hardship. Modern believers should ask: Are we encouraging those who serve, or are we making their work harder?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in how He raises up different people for His work. He called Timothy, even though he was young and not as bold as Paul. This reminds us that God values the heart, not just outward abilities (1 Samuel 16:7).

God also shows His love by caring for those who serve Him. Paul’s instructions to protect Timothy reflect God’s own concern for His workers. The Lord does not send His people out alone—He provides support through the church.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus also taught about honoring and supporting those who serve God:

• Luke 9:48 – “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me.” Just as Paul urged respect for Timothy, Jesus taught that honoring those who serve is the same as honoring Him.
• Matthew 10:40-42 – Jesus said, “Anyone who welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward.” Supporting God’s workers is an act of faith.
• Mark 6:1-6 – Jesus Himself was rejected in His hometown because people looked down on Him. This mirrors how Timothy might have been treated.
• John 13:20 – “Whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me.” Just as Paul expected the Corinthians to receive Timothy well, Jesus expects believers to receive and respect His servants.

Paul’s defense of Timothy reflects Christ’s own heart—Jesus never dismissed people because of their background, but affirmed those who served in humility.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever looked down on someone because they were younger or less experienced? How does this verse challenge that mindset?
2. How can you personally encourage and support those who serve in ministry?
3. What does it mean to “send someone on their way in peace” today? How can you apply that in your church?
4. Why do you think Paul was so protective of Timothy? How can we show the same care for young leaders today?
5. How does this verse reflect Jesus’ teaching about honoring those who work for God?