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1 Corinthians 16:2
Verse
Context
The Collection for the Saints
1Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia:2On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will be needed.3Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.
Sermons
Willie Mullan
Brian Brodersen
Zac Poonen
Joseph Balsan
George VerwerSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Upon the first day of the week - The apostle prescribes the most convenient and proper method of making this contribution. 1. Every man was to feel it his duty to succor his brethren in distress. 2. He was to do this according to the ability which God gave him. 3. He was to do this at the conclusion of the week, when he had cast up his weekly earnings, and had seen how much God had prospered his labor. 4. He was then to bring it on the first day of the week, as is most likely, to the church or assembly, that it might be put in the common treasury. 5. We learn from this that the weekly contribution could not be always the same, as each man was to lay by as God had prospered him: now, some weeks he would gain more; others, less. 6. It appears from the whole that the first day of the week, which is the Christian Sabbath, was the day on which their principal religious meetings were held in Corinth and the Churches of Galatia; and, consequently, in all other places where Christianity had prevailed. This is a strong argument for the keeping of the Christian Sabbath. 7. We may observe that the apostle follows here the rule of the synagogue; it was a regular custom among the Jews to make their collections for the poor on the Sabbath day, that they might not be without the necessaries of life, and might not be prevented from coming to the synagogue. 8. For the purpose of making this provision, they had a purse, which was called ארנקי של צדקה Arneki shel tsedakah, "The purse of the alms," or what we would term, the poor's box. This is what the apostle seems to mean when he says, Let him lay by him in store - let him put it in the alms' purse, or in the poor's box. 9. It was a maxim also with them that, if they found any money, they were not to put it in their private purse, but in that which belonged to the poor. 10. The pious Jews believed that as salt seasoned food, so did alms, riches; and that he who did not give alms of what he had, his riches should be dispersed. The moth would corrupt the bags, and the canker corrode the money, unless the mass was sanctified by giving a part to the poor.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
first day of . . . week--already kept sacred by Christians as the day of the Lord's resurrection, the beginning day both of the physical and of the new spiritual creations: it gradually superseded the Jewish sabbath on the seventh day (Psa 118:22-24; Joh 20:19, Joh 20:26; Act 20:7; Rev 1:10). So the beginning of the year was changed from autumn to spring when Israel was brought out of Egypt. Three annual feasts, all typical of Christian truths, were directed to be kept on the first day of the week: the feast of the wave offering of the first sheaf, answering to the Lord's resurrection; Pentecost, or the feast of weeks, typical of the fruits of the resurrection in the Christian Church (Lev 23:11, Lev 23:15-16, Lev 23:36); the feast of tabernacles at harvest, typical of the ingathering of the full number of the elect from one end of heaven to the other. Easter was directed to be kept as a holy sabbath (Exo 12:16). The Christian Sabbath commemorates the respective works of the Three Persons of the Triune God--creation, redemption (the resurrection), and sanctification (on Pentecost the Holy Ghost being poured out). Jesus came to fulfil the Spirit of the Law, not to cancel it, or to lower its standard. The primary object of the sabbath is holiness, not merely rest: "Remember that thou keep holy the sabbath day." Compare Gen 2:3, "God blessed and sanctified it, because . . . in it He had rested," &c. The word "Remember" implies that it was in existence before the giving of the law from Sinai, and refers to its institution in Paradise (compare Exo 16:22-23, Exo 16:26, Exo 16:30). "Six days shalt thou labor": the spirit of the command is fulfilled whether the six days' labor be on the last six days or on the first. A perpetual sabbath would doubtless be the highest Christian ideal; but living in a world of business where the Christian ideal is not yet realized, if a law of definite times was necessary in Paradise, it is still more so now. every one of yon--even those in limited circumstances. lay by him--though there be not a weekly public collection, each is privately to set apart a definite proportion of his weekly income for the Lord's cause and charity. in store--abundantly: the earnest of a better store laid up for the giver (Ti1 6:19). as God hath prospered him--literally, "whatsoever he may be prospered in," or "may by prosperity have acquired" [ALFORD], (Mat 25:15-29; Co2 8:12). that there be no gatherings when I come--that they may not then have to be made, when your and my time ought to be employed m more directly spiritual things. When men give once for all, not so much is given. But when each lays by something every Lord's day, more is collected than one would have given at once [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Upon the first day of the week,.... In an ancient copy of Beza's, and in some others, it is added, "the Lord's day". Upon some one first day of the week, or more, if there was a necessity for it, until the collection was finished; though the Syriac and Arabic versions render it, "every first day": but this is not the apostle's intention, that a collection should be made every first day, but only on some one day, or as long as it was necessary: for at the close of the verse he gives this reason for it, "that there be no gatherings when I come": whereas, if this collection was to have been every first day, and to have been always continued, it must have been when he was present, as well as when absent; but this was only designed for a certain time, and on a certain account: the reason of his fixing upon the first day of the week was, because on this day the disciples of Christ, and the primitive churches, met together for divine worship, to hear the word, and observe the ordinances of Christ; see Joh 20:19 and was a very fit reason for such a work, when their hearts were warmed with the presence of God and Christ, with the grace of the Spirit, and the doctrines of the Gospel, and their affections were knit to one another, and to all the saints: and so we find from the accounts of Justin Martyr (w), and of Tertullian (x), that it was usual for the primitive churches in the age following that of the apostles, after the worship of God was over, to collect money for widows and orphans, and for saints in distress, such as were banished into distant parts, or condemned to the mines; and this practice was very agreeable to the customs of the apostle's countrymen, the Jews, from whence he might take this, who used to collect for, and distribute to the poor on their sabbath (y). "The alms dish was every day, but the alms chest from evening of the sabbath to the evening of the sabbath,'' It was collected and distributed then, as their commentators say (z). Let everyone of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him. The persons who are to contribute are everyone, of every sex, age, state, and condition, male and female, young and old, servants and masters, the meaner as well as the richer sort; the poor widow threw in her mite into the treasury as well as the rich men: the act of communication or distribution is signified by laying by him in store; for this is not to be understood of separating a part of his substance from the rest, and laying it up "in his own house", as the Syriac version renders it, or the putting it in his pocket in order to give it; though both these acts may be necessary, as preparatory to the work: but it intends the very act itself: for communicating to the poor is laying up in store a good foundation for the time to come; it is a laying up treasure in heaven, and riches there, which will never corrupt: the manner in which this is to be done, and the measure of it, "as God hath prospered him"; according to the success he has in his worldly business, and the increase of his worldly substance, and which is the way to have it enlarged. The Jews have a saying (a), "if a man observes his provisions to be straitened, let him do alms of them, how much more if they are large.'' The Vulgate Latin version renders, it, "laying up what pleases him well"; and the Arabic version, "what through liberality he pleases, and shall be convenient for him"; for this ought to be a freewill offering, as a matter of bounty and generosity, and not of covetousness, or of force and necessity, but as a man, of himself has purposed in his own heart, and which he does with cheerfulness and freedom. That there be no gatherings when I come; who had other work, and greater service to do among them; besides, he was desirous of having this collection over and ready when he came, that he might directly send it away to Jerusalem, knowing the pressing necessities of the saints there. (w) Apolog. 2. p. 98, 99. (x) Apolog. c. 39. (y) T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 8. 2. Maimon, Hilch. Mattanot Anayim, c. 9. sect. 6. (z) Maimon. R. Samson & Bartenora in Misn. Peah, c. 8. sect. 7. (a) T. Bab. Gittim, fol. 7. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:2 Christians met on the first day of each week (see Acts 20:7) rather than the last day of the week, as in the Old Testament (Exod 20:8; 34:21; Isa 58:13-14). The first day was the “Lord’s Day,” the day of the Lord’s resurrection (Mark 16:9; Luke 24:13-15; John 20:19; Rev 1:10). • The portion of the money you have earned is not specified; Paul later encouraged them to give as generously as they could (2 Cor 8:1-4; 9:6-13; cp. Luke 12:33-34; 21:1-4; 1 Tim 6:18-19).
1 Corinthians 16:2
The Collection for the Saints
1Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia:2On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will be needed.3Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Bible Analysis of Man) Man's Imagination
By Willie Mullan2.7K1:00:00Bible Analysis Of ManMAT 6:33MAT 24:371CO 16:2EPH 6:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of surrendering all thoughts, memories, conscience, and imagination to the Lord. The sermon focuses on the book of Genesis, specifically chapter six, which covers a period of 1,600 years after the fall of man. During this time, the imagination of humanity worsened, leading to the deception of the devil and the worship of idols. The sermon also references the book of Psalms, highlighting the foolishness of the heathen who imagine vain things. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the power and wisdom of God, as seen in the creation of the universe and the placement of the stars in space.
(1 Corinthians) Overview to Chapter 16
By Brian Brodersen1.7K54:51MAT 23:231CO 16:21CO 16:132CO 9:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being alert and watchful as Christians. He highlights how Christians often fail to pay attention to false teachings and are unaware of the signs of the times. The speaker encourages believers to have faith in the power of the gospel and to boldly proclaim it, despite facing adversaries. The sermon concludes with the example of the transformation that occurred in the ancient society of Ephesus when the gospel was preached, and the speaker laments the lack of focus on preaching the gospel in the modern church.
(2 Corinthians) ch.7:6-8:9
By Zac Poonen1.7K44:241CO 16:22CO 8:12CO 8:9PHP 2:9In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of giving in the church and the right attitude behind it. He emphasizes that giving should not be done out of compulsion, but rather out of a desire to serve and bless others. The speaker highlights the example of the churches in Macedonia who gave beyond their ability and willingly participated in supporting believers in need. He also emphasizes that before giving financially, one must first give their heart and life to God, as God desires a person's whole being, not just their money. The sermon concludes by stating that giving is a manifestation of God's grace and a way to share what we have with others.
Eternity to Eternity 06 Genesis 1:9
By Joseph Balsan7871:02:54GenesisGEN 1:9ISA 46:9MAT 6:33ACT 15:18ACT 20:7ROM 8:281CO 16:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of completion and the finished work of Jesus on the cross. He shares the story of Hudson Taylor, who initially had doubts about God and the Bible but had a transformative experience while reading a gospel leaflet. The preacher then goes on to explain the six days of reconstruction in Genesis, highlighting how God brought light into the chaotic creation and separated the waters. The sermon emphasizes the significance of Jesus' cry, "It is finished," and prompts listeners to reflect on what was truly finished on the cross.
Financial Crisis
By George Verwer7681:28:58PRO 4:23MAT 6:331CO 16:22CO 9:7EPH 6:12PHP 4:19JAS 1:17The video is a sermon transcript discussing the financial struggles faced by Operation Mobilization (OM), a missionary organization. The speaker shares his personal struggles and questions regarding OM's financial policy and practice. He emphasizes the need for prayer and counsel from listeners. The speaker mentions a recent Area Leaders Conference where issues were discussed and decisions were made for the future of OM.
Lookout mtn.conference 1973-08 the Apostle Paul
By Stan Ford37042:26ROM 8:11ROM 8:231CO 16:22CO 4:102CO 9:6GAL 5:16PHP 4:10In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the letter to the Philippians and discusses the theme of caring for others. He begins by diagnosing the troubles faced by the church and then provides a prescription for overcoming them. The preacher emphasizes the importance of giving and supporting God's servants, using the example of the collection taken on the first day of the week. He also reminds the congregation that they are pilgrims on a journey and encourages them to remember their ultimate goal of being with the Lord. Throughout the sermon, the preacher references various verses from the Bible, including Philippians 4:10 and 2 Corinthians 16.
Skyland Conference 1980-10 Christian Stewardship
By Stan Ford34332:251CO 16:21CO 16:14HEB 6:10HEB 8:12HEB 10:29HEB 13:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of Christian stewardship, specifically focusing on the stewardship of finances. The speaker acknowledges that it is a difficult subject to talk about, as it implies that the person speaking has fully given everything to the Lord. However, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not turning away from this topic, as it is part of our stewardship according to the word of God. The speaker references Hebrews 13:5 and Corinthians 6:19-20 to highlight the idea that as holy priests, we should not only offer sacrifices of praise to God but also communicate and do good as part of our worship. The speaker challenges the audience to reflect on their own worship and giving, emphasizing the responsibility to minister to the things of the Lord as stewards of what He has given us.
Biblical Principles of Christian Giving
By Colin Peckham02CH 31:21MAT 6:3MAT 25:21MRK 12:441CO 4:21CO 16:22CO 5:102CO 8:122CO 9:72CO 9:15EPH 5:3Colin Peckham emphasizes that Christian giving is an act of worship and thanksgiving to God, reflecting the believer's devotion and loyalty. The sermon highlights the importance of giving systematically, proportionately, individually, cheerfully, wholeheartedly, sacrificially, willingly, purposefully, faithfully, responsibly, generously, secretly, honestly, gratefully, and accountably, stressing the need for genuine motives and heartfelt surrender to Christ in stewardship.
The Christian Life
By David Shelby Corlett0GEN 14:19MAL 3:10MAT 22:21JHN 14:16JHN 17:14ACT 1:8ACT 17:24ROM 8:2ROM 8:41CO 6:191CO 9:141CO 10:311CO 16:22CO 6:142CO 9:7GAL 5:22GAL 6:10EPH 1:13EPH 5:331TH 5:221TI 2:1TIT 2:12HEB 10:241PE 2:131PE 4:102PE 3:18David Shelby Corlett preaches on the standard of Christian living, emphasizing the importance of living upright, sober, and godly lives according to the moral law revealed in the Scriptures, seeking to glorify God in all aspects of life. Christians are called to glorify God in their bodies by recognizing that they are temples of the Holy Spirit, refraining from practices that do not honor God, and living in a way that reflects God's glory. The obligations for Christian growth include developing holiness, Christian virtues, and actively manifesting these in daily life, while the means for growth involve attending public worship, engaging in devotional exercises, and serving in Christian ministry.
Being "In the Spirit"
By Zac Poonen0ACT 20:71CO 16:2COL 2:16COL 3:2REV 1:10Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of being 'in the Spirit' like John was when he received the revelation on the Lord's day. He emphasizes the need for believers to tune their minds to the things above, to hear God's voice clearly amidst the clamor of worldly distractions and temptations. Poonen challenges listeners to stay sensitive to sin, walk in humility, and be open to hearing what the Lord is saying, especially in these last days of the age.
The Observance of the Lord's D
By Andrew Borland0MAT 28:1ACT 2:1ACT 20:71CO 16:2REV 1:10Andrew Borland preaches about the significance of observing the Lord's day, emphasizing that it celebrates the New Creation and Christ's resurrection. Believers are encouraged to keep the first day of the week, not as a mere duty, but from the heart, in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection. The observance of the first day is supported by various events in the Bible, such as Christ's resurrection, the descent of the Holy Spirit, and the disciples gathering to break bread. The focus is on the spiritual significance and unity of believers in commemorating the Lord's death and resurrection on the first day of the week.
Christ Versus Moses
By Arthur Vess0MAL 3:6MAT 5:20ROM 3:311CO 9:81CO 16:2GAL 3:7Arthur Vess preaches about the misconception that the law of tithing belongs to the law of Moses and was annulled by Christ, emphasizing that the law of tithing existed before Moses and is still relevant today. He highlights how Abraham paid tithes to Melchisedec, believed to be Jesus Christ, showcasing the continuity of tithing from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Vess explains that while Christ did away with ceremonial laws, He established moral laws, including the law of tithing, as a way to show love and devotion to God. He challenges the notion of the annulment of tithing, pointing out that there is no record of it being annulled and that it is crucial for financing the spread of the gospel in a world filled with wickedness.
Parasites
By Arthur Vess0PRO 3:9MAL 3:101CO 16:22CO 9:7HEB 7:8Arthur Vess emphasizes the importance of tithing and bringing the full tithe into the storehouse as instructed by God. He addresses the excuse of choosing where to tithe, highlighting that the tithe belongs to God and should be used for the evangelization and salvation of the world through the Church. Vess points out that the church could better support the poor if everyone tithed faithfully. He references Paul's command to the Corinthian church to bring the tithe into the storehouse on the Sabbath for proper distribution. Vess stresses the need for church financial organization and encourages congregants to bring their tithe into God's treasury.
2 Corinthians 8 and 9
By John Nelson Darby0StewardshipGenerosityPRO 19:17MAT 6:19LUK 15:4ACT 20:351CO 16:22CO 8:92CO 9:7GAL 6:21TI 6:17John Nelson Darby discusses Paul's concerns about collecting funds for the poor in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of generosity and the heart's attitude in giving. He highlights the example of the Macedonians and the need for the Corinthians to fulfill their commitment to support others, framing it as a matter of grace and thanksgiving to God. Darby illustrates the concept of stewardship, urging believers to use their resources wisely in light of eternal values rather than for immediate gratification. He contrasts the fate of the rich man and Lazarus to emphasize the importance of using worldly wealth to build relationships that will last beyond this life. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a heart of grace in giving, reflecting God's joy in the act of generosity.
Be "In the Spirit" Every Day in the New Year (2013)
By Zac Poonen0Being in the SpiritHearing God's VoiceACT 20:71CO 16:2COL 2:16COL 3:2REV 1:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of being 'in the Spirit' daily, particularly as we enter a new year. He explains that the early disciples gathered on the Lord's Day to strengthen one another, free from the constraints of special days, and that being in the Spirit allows us to hear God's voice amidst the distractions of the world. Poonen likens our minds to a radio, suggesting that tuning into spiritual matters enables us to receive divine messages, while tuning into worldly concerns leads to confusion and anxiety. He challenges believers to remain sensitive to sin and humble before God to fully experience His guidance and communication. As we embark on a new year, he encourages everyone to cultivate a spirit-filled life to hear the Lord's voice clearly.
Stewardship
By George Mueller0StewardshipGenerosityGEN 28:22PRO 11:24MAT 6:33LUK 6:381CO 6:191CO 16:22CO 9:6HEB 13:51PE 1:19George Mueller emphasizes that as children of God, we are stewards of all that we possess, having been bought with the precious blood of Christ. He urges believers to seek God's will in how they use their resources, rather than succumbing to natural desires for personal gain or comfort. Mueller highlights the importance of regular giving and helping those in need, reminding us that our generosity reflects our understanding of stewardship. He encourages believers to trust in God's provision, asserting that those who give bountifully will also reap bountifully, both in this life and the next. Ultimately, he shares his personal testimony of the blessings that come from living as a faithful steward.
An Anonymous Benefactor
By Denis Lyle0EXO 23:19LEV 23:20NUM 18:82KI 4:42PSA 37:23MRK 12:44LUK 19:10ACT 20:351CO 16:22CO 8:52CO 9:6PHP 2:13PHP 4:19Denis Lyle preaches about the story of an anonymous benefactor who generously provided for Dr. Barnardo's village for orphan girls and how God's provision often comes at the right time and from unexpected sources, just like in the case of Elisha and the trainee prophets at Gilgal during a famine. The sermon emphasizes the importance of sacrificial giving, following biblical principles like giving the firstfruits and giving generously even in times of scarcity, as demonstrated by the actions of the anonymous benefactor and Elisha. It challenges believers to trust in God's provision, be generous, and have faith that God can meet needs abundantly.
Where Should I Go to Church?
By Brent Barnett0MAT 16:16MAT 18:15MAT 28:20MRK 11:17JHN 13:34ACT 20:71CO 16:2EPH 4:101TI 3:15HEB 10:23Brent Barnett emphasizes the importance of believers gathering together as the church, a place for worship, confession of faith, and mutual encouragement. The local church is a community of imperfect individuals striving to grow in Christlikeness, supporting one another in love and good deeds. Sound doctrine is crucial in choosing a church, ensuring it aligns with the truth of God's Word and teaches the full counsel of God. Worship should be done in spirit and truth, with a right heart attitude and a yielding to the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Upon the first day of the week - The apostle prescribes the most convenient and proper method of making this contribution. 1. Every man was to feel it his duty to succor his brethren in distress. 2. He was to do this according to the ability which God gave him. 3. He was to do this at the conclusion of the week, when he had cast up his weekly earnings, and had seen how much God had prospered his labor. 4. He was then to bring it on the first day of the week, as is most likely, to the church or assembly, that it might be put in the common treasury. 5. We learn from this that the weekly contribution could not be always the same, as each man was to lay by as God had prospered him: now, some weeks he would gain more; others, less. 6. It appears from the whole that the first day of the week, which is the Christian Sabbath, was the day on which their principal religious meetings were held in Corinth and the Churches of Galatia; and, consequently, in all other places where Christianity had prevailed. This is a strong argument for the keeping of the Christian Sabbath. 7. We may observe that the apostle follows here the rule of the synagogue; it was a regular custom among the Jews to make their collections for the poor on the Sabbath day, that they might not be without the necessaries of life, and might not be prevented from coming to the synagogue. 8. For the purpose of making this provision, they had a purse, which was called ארנקי של צדקה Arneki shel tsedakah, "The purse of the alms," or what we would term, the poor's box. This is what the apostle seems to mean when he says, Let him lay by him in store - let him put it in the alms' purse, or in the poor's box. 9. It was a maxim also with them that, if they found any money, they were not to put it in their private purse, but in that which belonged to the poor. 10. The pious Jews believed that as salt seasoned food, so did alms, riches; and that he who did not give alms of what he had, his riches should be dispersed. The moth would corrupt the bags, and the canker corrode the money, unless the mass was sanctified by giving a part to the poor.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
first day of . . . week--already kept sacred by Christians as the day of the Lord's resurrection, the beginning day both of the physical and of the new spiritual creations: it gradually superseded the Jewish sabbath on the seventh day (Psa 118:22-24; Joh 20:19, Joh 20:26; Act 20:7; Rev 1:10). So the beginning of the year was changed from autumn to spring when Israel was brought out of Egypt. Three annual feasts, all typical of Christian truths, were directed to be kept on the first day of the week: the feast of the wave offering of the first sheaf, answering to the Lord's resurrection; Pentecost, or the feast of weeks, typical of the fruits of the resurrection in the Christian Church (Lev 23:11, Lev 23:15-16, Lev 23:36); the feast of tabernacles at harvest, typical of the ingathering of the full number of the elect from one end of heaven to the other. Easter was directed to be kept as a holy sabbath (Exo 12:16). The Christian Sabbath commemorates the respective works of the Three Persons of the Triune God--creation, redemption (the resurrection), and sanctification (on Pentecost the Holy Ghost being poured out). Jesus came to fulfil the Spirit of the Law, not to cancel it, or to lower its standard. The primary object of the sabbath is holiness, not merely rest: "Remember that thou keep holy the sabbath day." Compare Gen 2:3, "God blessed and sanctified it, because . . . in it He had rested," &c. The word "Remember" implies that it was in existence before the giving of the law from Sinai, and refers to its institution in Paradise (compare Exo 16:22-23, Exo 16:26, Exo 16:30). "Six days shalt thou labor": the spirit of the command is fulfilled whether the six days' labor be on the last six days or on the first. A perpetual sabbath would doubtless be the highest Christian ideal; but living in a world of business where the Christian ideal is not yet realized, if a law of definite times was necessary in Paradise, it is still more so now. every one of yon--even those in limited circumstances. lay by him--though there be not a weekly public collection, each is privately to set apart a definite proportion of his weekly income for the Lord's cause and charity. in store--abundantly: the earnest of a better store laid up for the giver (Ti1 6:19). as God hath prospered him--literally, "whatsoever he may be prospered in," or "may by prosperity have acquired" [ALFORD], (Mat 25:15-29; Co2 8:12). that there be no gatherings when I come--that they may not then have to be made, when your and my time ought to be employed m more directly spiritual things. When men give once for all, not so much is given. But when each lays by something every Lord's day, more is collected than one would have given at once [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Upon the first day of the week,.... In an ancient copy of Beza's, and in some others, it is added, "the Lord's day". Upon some one first day of the week, or more, if there was a necessity for it, until the collection was finished; though the Syriac and Arabic versions render it, "every first day": but this is not the apostle's intention, that a collection should be made every first day, but only on some one day, or as long as it was necessary: for at the close of the verse he gives this reason for it, "that there be no gatherings when I come": whereas, if this collection was to have been every first day, and to have been always continued, it must have been when he was present, as well as when absent; but this was only designed for a certain time, and on a certain account: the reason of his fixing upon the first day of the week was, because on this day the disciples of Christ, and the primitive churches, met together for divine worship, to hear the word, and observe the ordinances of Christ; see Joh 20:19 and was a very fit reason for such a work, when their hearts were warmed with the presence of God and Christ, with the grace of the Spirit, and the doctrines of the Gospel, and their affections were knit to one another, and to all the saints: and so we find from the accounts of Justin Martyr (w), and of Tertullian (x), that it was usual for the primitive churches in the age following that of the apostles, after the worship of God was over, to collect money for widows and orphans, and for saints in distress, such as were banished into distant parts, or condemned to the mines; and this practice was very agreeable to the customs of the apostle's countrymen, the Jews, from whence he might take this, who used to collect for, and distribute to the poor on their sabbath (y). "The alms dish was every day, but the alms chest from evening of the sabbath to the evening of the sabbath,'' It was collected and distributed then, as their commentators say (z). Let everyone of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him. The persons who are to contribute are everyone, of every sex, age, state, and condition, male and female, young and old, servants and masters, the meaner as well as the richer sort; the poor widow threw in her mite into the treasury as well as the rich men: the act of communication or distribution is signified by laying by him in store; for this is not to be understood of separating a part of his substance from the rest, and laying it up "in his own house", as the Syriac version renders it, or the putting it in his pocket in order to give it; though both these acts may be necessary, as preparatory to the work: but it intends the very act itself: for communicating to the poor is laying up in store a good foundation for the time to come; it is a laying up treasure in heaven, and riches there, which will never corrupt: the manner in which this is to be done, and the measure of it, "as God hath prospered him"; according to the success he has in his worldly business, and the increase of his worldly substance, and which is the way to have it enlarged. The Jews have a saying (a), "if a man observes his provisions to be straitened, let him do alms of them, how much more if they are large.'' The Vulgate Latin version renders, it, "laying up what pleases him well"; and the Arabic version, "what through liberality he pleases, and shall be convenient for him"; for this ought to be a freewill offering, as a matter of bounty and generosity, and not of covetousness, or of force and necessity, but as a man, of himself has purposed in his own heart, and which he does with cheerfulness and freedom. That there be no gatherings when I come; who had other work, and greater service to do among them; besides, he was desirous of having this collection over and ready when he came, that he might directly send it away to Jerusalem, knowing the pressing necessities of the saints there. (w) Apolog. 2. p. 98, 99. (x) Apolog. c. 39. (y) T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 8. 2. Maimon, Hilch. Mattanot Anayim, c. 9. sect. 6. (z) Maimon. R. Samson & Bartenora in Misn. Peah, c. 8. sect. 7. (a) T. Bab. Gittim, fol. 7. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:2 Christians met on the first day of each week (see Acts 20:7) rather than the last day of the week, as in the Old Testament (Exod 20:8; 34:21; Isa 58:13-14). The first day was the “Lord’s Day,” the day of the Lord’s resurrection (Mark 16:9; Luke 24:13-15; John 20:19; Rev 1:10). • The portion of the money you have earned is not specified; Paul later encouraged them to give as generously as they could (2 Cor 8:1-4; 9:6-13; cp. Luke 12:33-34; 21:1-4; 1 Tim 6:18-19).