Giving of Money and Time

I Corinthians 16:1–12
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A man had a heart attack and was rushed to the hospital. He could receive little company and was not to be excited. While in the hospital a rich uncle died and left him a million dollars. His family wondered how to break the news to him with the least amount of excitement. It was … More

Giving

In this passage, Paul answers a question the Corinthian believers had asked about a collection he was taking for the poor and then shares his personal travel plans. The Corinthians had heard from the Galatian churches that he was taking an offering for the poor in Jerusalem. How we handle our finances is often a good measure of our relationship with the Lord. In answering their question about money, Paul gives some important principles on giving (vv. 1-4):

1. Offerings need to be made regularly: “Upon the first day of the week” (vv. 1-2).

2. Every person needs to give: Whether rich or poor (v. 2). Jesus commanded “Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matt. 10:8).

3. Giving is to be proportionate: not just a little (v. 2).

4. The money needs to be handled honestly: (vv. 3-4) It is unfortunate that many Christian ministries lose their testimony because of mismanaged funds.

Paul was as careful in his use of time as he was in his use of money. Someone has said that killing time is the chief occupation of modern society. The apostle shares his travel plans so he can take advantage of every opportunity (vv. 5-9). He was in Ephesus when he wrote this letter. From there he planned to travel to Macedonia for a time of ministry, being in Corinth during the winter, when it would be difficult to travel. Then he was to go to Judea to make the collection. His plans had to be revised and he ended up not spending as much time in Corinth as he hoped.

Application

I need to ask God each day what opportunities He is giving to me. Instead of complaining about the obstacles, I need to take advantage of the opportunities and leave the results with the Lord.

I Corinthians 16:1-12 (English Standard Version)

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