1 Corinthians 16:9

for. great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

'for' -This explains why Paul will tarry in Ephesus, even though he is greatly needed in both Corinth and Macedonia.

'a great door' -'a great opportunity lies open to me' (Knox); 'for. have wide opportunities here for active service' (Mof). metaphor for opportunity (2 Corinthians 2:12; Colossians 4:3)

'effectual' -1756. energes en-er-gace'; from 1722 and 2041; active, operative: -effectual, powerful.

'The word stresses the eventfulness of the opportunity. In modern slang one might say that things were "cooking".' (McGuiggan p. 215)

'is opened' -'perfect active-stands open' (McGuiggan p. 215)

Luke records in the book of Acts that Paul had tremendous success in Ephesus. (Acts 19:10 'So the word of the Lord was growing mightily and prevailing'; 26 '..Paul had persuaded and turned away. considerable number of people..')

'and there are many adversaries' -which we also find mentioned in the book of Acts. (1 Corinthians 19:24-41)

Points to Note:

1. Paul doesn't say, 'I must leave Ephesus because many adversaries to the gospel exist'.

2. SATAN IS ALWAYS CLOSE BY WHEN THE LORD'S WORK IS BEING DONE! (Matthew 13:24)

3. 'He doesn't say, " But there are many adversaries." He says, "and"...Almost as if they too were. good reason for him to stay around in Ephesus. It also brings to my mind that having many adversaries to contend with was so common an occurrence that it didn't warrant. "but".' (McGuiggan p. 215)

4. Paul knew that he was stepping on toes in Ephesus with his preaching.

TIMOTHY AND APOLLOS: