Apparently in answer to a question posed by the Corinthian
believers, Paul instructed them about collecting money for the impoverished
saints at Jerusalem. In the Body of Christ, we not only learn from each other
and pray for each other, but also help where we know other local churches are
in need. The Jerusalem Church had suffered severe persecution and poverty from the
beginning, so other local congregations were eager to help. Paul was happy to
help these Corinthians with their planned contribution to the cause.
Giving is a privilege of the Christian Way of Life. If we
have, we can share with those who do not have. What we have has been given by
God’s grace, and we are encouraged to give generously, as God has given to us. Even
those of us who are not rich monetarily can derive great pleasure in just being
able to share with others who are in need. It must be really gratifying to be
able to give out of great abundance.
It is important to note that Paul didn’t set a percentage of
income for this weekly collection. There is a correct time: the first day of
every week—Sunday. Each is to put “something” aside for the collection. How
much? “As he may prosper.” That makes it an individual decision, between the
believer and God, according to his level of income and what he is able to and
motivated to contribute. It is private, personal, and based on the believer’s
ability and willingness to give. There must be no coercion or embarrassment,
false promises or legalism involved. Paul wanted the congregation to deal with
this detail before he arrived--he wasn’t interested in handling the money—and to
have trustworthy people designated to deliver this gift. If they want Paul to
go, these couriers would accompany him. That’s accountability. Accountability
matters.
Love gives. At every opportunity. Regularly. Generously.
Graciously. It’s all about attitude. Not in order to receive, but because we
HAVE received. God knows. God sees. God rewards.
In verses 5-8 Paul stated his intention to come for an
extended visit, not just a “pass-through,” but it would be a while, because
there was work to be done at Ephesus, with lots of opposition, so he’d be busy
there for some time.
When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. So let no one despise him. Help him on his way in peace, that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers. I Corinthians 16:10-11
Paul had led young Timothy to the Lord and was training him
in the ministry. He totally trusted Timothy’s faithfulness and integrity. These
Gentile saints had better treat him with respect, provide him with whatever he
came for. His assistance was always valuable to Paul.
Also, they were urged to treat these other saints with
respect and dignity, as they, too were special to Paul: It is great to have
like-minded friends among the Body of Christ, who when you speak they can
identify with your priorities, because they worship the same Lord and love His
Word. Verses 15-20:
Now I urge you, brothers—you know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints— 16 be subject to such as these, and to every fellow worker and laborer. I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have made up for your absence, for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours. Give recognition to such people.
The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you
hearty greetings in the Lord. All the brothers send you
greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.
“Holy Kiss:” expression of friendship, fellowship, and
common faith. You know and love these people because they believe the same Lord
and love the same doctrine you do. It is an eternal bond. To those of us who
love Jesus Christ and His Word, Paul and Peter and Timothy and these other early
saints are just as familiar and beloved as the people we sat in Church with this
morning. We know them. They are our people. The Royal Family of God.
I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. If
anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord,
come!The grace of the
Lord Jesus be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus.
Amen. I Corinthians 16:21-24
Paul authenticated this writing with his own greeting and
signature. Strangely, there are some believers who do not really love our Lord,
though they have accepted His gift of eternal life. He Himself said in John’s
gospel “if you love me you’ll keep my word,” (John 14:23-24) meaning some would not love Him or
keep His Word. Those who do not are under a curse until He comes, meaning they cannot
ever be really at peace in this world, because they do not totally identify
themselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, even though He has saved them. They
hinder the Holy Spirit’s work in their lives by their selfishness, and never
really grow up in grace. Nevertheless, His grace is with His Church. As is Paul's love.
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