1 Corinthians 16

This is the last chapter for 1 Corinthians.

For I do not want to see you now just in passing. I hope to spend time with you, if the Lord permits.

(v8, ESV)

Paul desires to spend time with them. He desires to go out and spread the gospel to more people; however, that is not his only focus. In Romans, Paul speaks about mutually encouraged by them. It's a two way giving and taking of imparting from one another. It is to his benefit and their benefit.

For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you- that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine.

(Romans 1:11-12, ESV)

It's also interesting that Paul adds "if the Lord permits." (v8, ESV). Paul recognizes that he is a slave to the living God. Even though he has desires to do certain things, his life is merely subject to God. His coming and going can be changed by God. Paul does not know what God has in store for him, but he is willing and able to do what God wants him to do.

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

(v13-14, ESV)

This verse is particularly amusing to me because it's funny to say to the females. However, in all seriousness, it is speaking about attributes that men are known to be better at. In NIV it says "be men of courage" (v13, NIV). It is even mentioned to do things in love. Maybe this added because this is not an attribute men are known to excel in. Also, we know from chapter 13 that anything done in love is meaningless.