1 Corinthians 16:1

¶ Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.

Now {G1161} concerning {G4012} the collection {G3048} for {G1519} the saints {G40}, as {G5618} I have given order {G1299} to the churches {G1577} of Galatia {G1053}, even {G2532} so {G3779} do {G4160} ye {G5210}.

Now, in regard to the collection being made for God’s people: you are to do the same as I directed the congregations in Galatia to do.

Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia:

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I gave order to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye.

Commentary

Context

First Corinthians chapter 16 marks the concluding section of Paul's letter to the church in Corinth. Having addressed numerous issues including divisions, immorality, marriage, food sacrificed to idols, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection, Paul now turns to practical matters. This verse introduces the subject of a specific financial collection being organized for believers in need elsewhere. It follows his extensive teaching and exhortation, signaling a shift to administrative and practical instruction as he prepares for a potential visit.

Key Themes

  • Christian Giving and Generosity: The verse highlights the importance of financial contributions within the early Christian community, specifically for supporting fellow believers in need. This wasn't merely an optional act but an organized effort.
  • Unity and Mutual Support: The collection demonstrates a tangible link between geographically separated churches, illustrating the unity of the body of Christ and the responsibility believers have to care for one another, particularly the impoverished.
  • Apostolic Instruction and Order: Paul emphasizes that this is not a new or unique request for Corinth but follows an established pattern he has already implemented in other churches, specifically those in Galatia. This underscores his apostolic authority and the standardization of certain practices across the early church. The phrase "given order" (Greek: dietaxa) suggests a clear, definite instruction or arrangement.

Linguistic Insights

The term translated "collection" (Greek: logeia) refers to a gathering or levy, indicating a systematic effort rather than a spontaneous offering. The recipients are called "saints" (Greek: hagiois), a common term Paul uses for all believers, signifying their status as people set apart for God. The instruction "given order" (Greek: dietaxa) implies a formal directive from Paul, highlighting the authoritative nature of his guidance on this matter.

Reflection

This verse reminds us that practical acts of generosity and mutual support are integral to Christian life. The early church in diverse regions was called to contribute to the needs of the saints in Jerusalem, demonstrating a powerful example of cross-cultural and inter-church solidarity. Paul's instruction shows that giving can be organized and systematic, not just spontaneous emotion. Today, believers are similarly called to support the work of the church and care for fellow Christians in need, following the pattern established by the apostles. This collection is further discussed by Paul in 2 Corinthians chapters 8 and 9, where he elaborates on the principles of joyful and generous giving.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 9:12 (9 votes)

    For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

  • 2 Corinthians 9:15 (9 votes)

    Thanks [be] unto God for his unspeakable gift.

  • 1 John 3:17 (8 votes)

    But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

  • 2 Corinthians 8:1 (8 votes)

    ¶ Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 (8 votes)

    For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

  • Romans 12:13 (8 votes)

    Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

  • Romans 15:25 (7 votes)

    But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.