Jerusalem was being hard hit with a shortage of food and supplies. There’s been some kind of interest for the Corinthian church to meet those needs. Instead of Paul coming and do a one-time collection, he asks that they safe up money once a week based on their ability to give. That way when he comes, he won’t need a special offering.
Furthermore, he wants to do this with great integrity. He isn’t going to just take the money himself, but in regards to finance, he is going to give it to them. He is going to give them a letter of recommendation. And if they want him to go, he will take them with him himself.
What principles is Paul setting in regards to finance?
Generosity towards others, especially other believers who are suffering.
Jerusalem was a long way away for the Corinthians. Perhaps not for us today, but for them, it was still a distant land few had gone to.
Paul had more than likely told them about the plight of the belivers in Jerusalem. They took it on faith that what he was saying ws true.
2) We give according to our income
The person who has a lot of income is no different than the person who has little. One may put more quantity in the offering basket, it’s about the generous heart.
Also, God asks that we give according to our ability and our income. It’s the setting aside of the 10th, not a specific amount.
3) Integrity with money is a group project
When it come to finances that are from a group, it is a group that should represent the handling of them, not just a single person. It is not a matter of distrust, it is a matter of integrity. Things should be an open book.
4) Leaders of introduction
Leaders have a part to play in the arena of finances and transference of trust. Paul was wanting to give the people they chose to handle the finances letters of introduction.
Introductions matter. Leaders need to help make those introductions so the work of ministry can flourish.
5) Be willing to go yourself
Leaders also need to be willing to go themselves. It might be out of the way and an inconvenience, but if need be and it is advisable, there should not be a shirking of responsibility.
Paul made sure that he promoted care for the believers, raised funds for them, and walked in great integrity in the delivery and disbursement of those events. He promoted others, and was willing to walk with them if needed. He set the example for all of us to follow.