Verse 15. I beseech you, brethren. The construction here is somewhat involved, but the sense is plain. The words, |I beseech you,| in this verse, are evidently to be taken in connexion with 1 Co 16:16. |I beseech you that ye submit yourselves unto such,| etc. The design is, to exhort them to pay proper deference to Stephanas, and to all who sustained the same rank and character; and the remainder of 1 Co 16:15 is designed to state the reason why they should show respect and kindness to the household of Stephanas.
Ye know the house. You are acquainted with the household, or family Probably a considerable portion, or all, of the family of Stephanas had been converted to the christian faith.
Of Stephanas. See Barnes |1 Co 1:16|.
Paul there says, that he had baptized his family.
That it is the first fruits of Achaia. They were the first converted to the Christian religion in Achaia. See Barnes |Ro 16:5|.
Respecting Achaia, See Barnes |Ac 18:12|.
That they have addicted themselves, etc. That they have devoted themselves to the service of Christians. That is, by aiding the ministry; by showing hospitality; by providing for their wants; by attending and aiding the apostles in their journeys, etc.
{f} |first fruits of Achaia| Ro 16:5 {+} |ministry| |service|