Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Corinthians 16:18

"For they refreshed my spirit and yours: acknowledge ye therefore them that are such." — 1 Corinthians 16:18 (ASV)

The reference to “the household [GK 3864] of Stephanas” was evidently prompted by the Corinthians’ lack of respect for them; by personal experience the apostle knew full well that the Corinthians were capable of disrespect. There is no conflict with Ac 17:34 in the statement in v.15 that those “in the household of Stephanas” were the first converts in Achaia, for Ac 17:34 speaks only of individuals like Dionysius, Damaris, and “a number of others” at Athens; here, however, a whole household (including the family and slaves) is in view. He urges the Corinthians to submit to the household of Stephanas and others like them because that entire family was committed to serving God’s people. Fortunatus and Achaicus—mentioned here for the first time (v.17)—were, along with Stephanas, probably the ones who brought the letter referred to in 1 Corinthians 7:1 to the apostle. That this delegation had “supplied what was lacking” may be taken to mean that their coming had encouraged Paul by showing him that the Corinthians were at least willing to ask his advice.

So they “refreshed his spirit” and the spirit of the Corinthians also (v.18) in that they were willing to go to Paul. Or perhaps Paul means that the Corinthians will be refreshed when the three men get back home and tell of their visit to him.