The New Testament shows that the church raised money to do good works such as meeting the needs of the poor (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-37; 11:28-30). To the church at Corinth, Paul wrote, “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.” From among the members at Corinth, a collection was to be taken up for the saints in need. This was not a new concept; the Jews had a treasury at the temple where people freely gave money (Mark 12:41; Luke 21:1). Similarly, Paul instructed congregations of the Lord’s church to take up collections from among Christians to do the work of the church, such as benevolence. This order was given to the churches of Galatia as well. The churches of Galatia were also commanded to share their earthly goods with teachers of God’s word (Gal. 6:6). They were exhorted to do good to all men, with a special emphasis on helping fellow Christians (Gal. 6:10).
When the early church had monetary needs, where did they get the money to meet those needs? Did the New Testament church get money from the government? No. Did they ask non-Christians in the community for support? No. Did they have sales and auctions to raise funds? No. The New Testament shows they took up contributions from the members of the church. Multiple times I have heard people of the world speak in derision of churches that are continually soliciting funds from everyone. Those sent forth to do the Lord’s work in the first century made a practice of “taking nothing of the Gentiles” (3 John 7).
Each Christian gives as God has prospered him (1 Cor. 16:2). Giving was done by “every man according to his ability” (Acts 11:29). Thus, some were able to give more than others. Some gave large sums, selling land or houses and giving the entirety of the sale to the church (Acts 4:34). Others were in deep poverty; recognition was given to the varying abilities with which different people were able to give (2 Cor. 8:1-3). Giving should not be done begrudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7). Sometimes people are prone to give great contributions to the church, but have strings attached. They may expect to have control in the church over those funds. Giving should be done with simplicity, or sincerity of heart (Rom. 12:8). Thus, our generosity should not have strings attached.
God’s love has been shown to us by His giving (John 3:16). The grace of Jesus Christ is seen in that though He was rich, for our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty may become rich (2 Cor. 8:9). A heart motivated to freely give is predominant in the ethos of the Lord’s church.
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