1 Corinthians 16:1-4 (WEL) Now concerning the collection for the saints. As I have given orders to the congregations in Galatia, so you do the same. 2 On the first of the week, let every one of you lay aside some funds as God has prospered him so that there are no collections when I come. 3 When I come, whomever you approve of by your letters, I will send to bring your freely offered gift to Jerusalem. 4 If it is worthwhile that I go, too, they will go with me.
Chapter summary (Box): “1 Corinthians 16:1-24 provides an amazing conclusion for a tremendous letter. (a) The brethren were encouraged to make a contribution to relief suffering saints at Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 16:1-4), (b) Paul promised to visit Corinth soon and to spend some time with them (1 Corinthians 16:5-9), (c) He asked them to receive Timothy and Apollos if they were able to visit (1 Corinthians 16:10-12), (d) He again showed the importance of watchfulness (1 Corinthians 16:13-14), (e) He commended the house of Stephanas and expressed thankfulness for the visit of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus (1 Corinthians 16:15-18), (f) He expressed the greeting of several to them (1 Corinthians 16:19-21), (g) He showed how horrible it was not to love the Lord (1 Corinthians 16:22), and (h) He concluded the letter with his benediction of grace and love.”
V1 Now concerning the collection for the saints. As I have given orders to the congregations in Galatia, so you do the same.
There is no law in the New Testament (NT) to tithe. It is an Old Testament, Mosaic Law, requirement with rates from 18-23% depending on the year. Abraham gave 10%, but that is Abraham. There is no NT law to do so. Verse 1-2 is the law for Christians. It is good to know what we are giving to, and that it goes to that cause. Be careful to whom you donate God’s money. All the church assemblies have the same law.
V2 On the first of the week, let every one of you lay aside some funds as God has prospered him so that there are no collections when I come.
This is Sunday. Plan and save now to give when Paul comes to gather it. Everyone has different income and expenses. Some are able to give much and others little. We are to give not to receive honor but to give honor by helping our fellow Christians.
V3 When I come, whomever you approve of by your letters, I will send to bring your freely offered gift to Jerusalem.
This person is a witness and helper to deliver the gift. It also makes the gift more personal when one of the believers goes in person. The Christians are a family and help family when able.
V4 If it is worthwhile that I go, too, they will go with me.
It is worthwhile to have an apostolic presence.
Albert Barnes: “If it be judged desirable and best. If my presence can further the object; or will satisfy you better; or will be deemed necessary to guide and aid those who may be sent, I will be willing to go also.”
We learn:
• How to give to those believers in need.
• How to share what we have.
Questions:
• How do you give to the needs of believers?
• How is your attitude about it?