1 Corinthians 16:1-2 Now about the collection for the Lord’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do.2 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.
The letter shifts topics beginning in ch. 16 and Paul begins the closing section. The first topic he takes up is the collection of money for the believers in Jerusalem and Judea who were undergoing a time of great need because of a famine. This offering is mentioned in different places in the New Testament, especially 2 Corinthians 8-9. At this point, Paul reminds them of the offering. Verse 1 assumes that they now about this offering already. The Galatian churches have set an example for the Corinthians. We can learn several principles about giving in these first two verses.
First, their giving was part of their worship. The practice of the Galatians was to take up the collection on the first day of the week, Sunday. This was likely when the churches met in celebration of Jesus’ resurrection and when they had corporate worship. Giving to others was an expression of their worship and thankfulness for what God had done in their own lives.
Second, accumulative giving will be more effective than one time giving. If the believers would set aside an amount each week, it would accumulate over time. This would be easier than giving a one time offering. Giving one time seems to be more painful psychologically because people think that they are making a great personal sacrifice. But disciplined and regular giving over a longer time period is easier for most people to do. It also shows stewardship.
Third, they gave according to their income. Obviously, people have needs and their income helps meet these needs. A person with a small income can only give a small amount. A person with a large income can give more. It is not the amount that is important but faithfulness in what God has given.
Fourth, they collectively saved the offering as a group. They pooled their resources. This required accountability and safe keeping until the offering could be delivered to those in need.
Fifth, by following this practice, they were ready to give the funds to Paul when he came. They would be prepared for the situation and have a way to get the funds to where the need was.
For older posts, click here.