1 Corinthians 16:3

Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.

Study Bible

Then, on my arrival
The phrase "on my arrival" indicates the Apostle Paul's intention to personally oversee the process of delivering the collection to Jerusalem. The Greek word for "arrival" (παρουσία, parousia) often denotes presence or coming, emphasizing Paul's active role and personal involvement. Historically, this reflects the early church's practice of accountability and transparency in handling financial matters, ensuring that the collection was managed with integrity.

I will send letters
The use of "letters" (ἐπιστολάς, epistolas) here refers to written communications that would authenticate the bearers of the gift. In the ancient world, letters served as official documents that provided authority and legitimacy. This practice underscores the importance of trust and verification in the early Christian community, ensuring that the funds were delivered to the intended recipients.

with those you recommend
The phrase "those you recommend" highlights the communal aspect of decision-making in the early church. The Greek word for "recommend" (δοκιμάζω, dokimazo) means to test or approve. This implies that the Corinthians were to select trustworthy individuals who had been tested and found reliable. It reflects the biblical principle of appointing faithful stewards, as seen in other scriptural contexts where character and reputation are paramount.

to carry your gift
The term "gift" (χάρισμα, charisma) in this context refers to the financial contribution collected for the Jerusalem church. The use of "gift" emphasizes the voluntary and gracious nature of the offering, rooted in the Greek concept of grace (χάρις, charis). This reflects the early Christian understanding of giving as an act of grace and fellowship, supporting the unity and mutual care within the body of Christ.

to Jerusalem
Jerusalem was the center of the early Christian church and held significant spiritual and historical importance. The collection for the Jerusalem church was a tangible expression of solidarity and support from the Gentile believers to their Jewish brethren. This act of generosity served to bridge cultural and ethnic divides, fostering unity within the diverse body of Christ. Historically, it also reflects the socio-economic challenges faced by the Jerusalem church, necessitating support from the wider Christian community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Corinthians, providing guidance and instructions for the early church.

2. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece where the church to whom Paul is writing is located.

3. Jerusalem
The destination for the collection, where the church was experiencing significant need.

4. The Corinthians
Members of the church in Corinth who are being instructed to prepare a collection for the saints in Jerusalem.

5. The Recommended Messengers
Trusted individuals from the Corinthian church who will be chosen to deliver the collection to Jerusalem.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Generosity
Paul’s instruction to the Corinthians to prepare a gift for the Jerusalem church underscores the Christian call to generosity and support for fellow believers in need.

Accountability and Trust
By recommending that the Corinthians choose trustworthy individuals to deliver the gift, Paul emphasizes the importance of accountability and integrity in handling church resources.

Unity in the Body of Christ
The collection for the Jerusalem church illustrates the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities and the call for unity and mutual support among believers.

Preparation and Planning
Paul’s directive to have the collection ready upon his arrival teaches the value of planning and preparation in ministry efforts.

The Role of Leadership
Paul’s involvement in the collection process highlights the role of church leaders in guiding and facilitating acts of service and charity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of collecting and sending aid to Jerusalem reflect the early church's understanding of community and mutual support?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of accountability and trust in handling resources within our own church communities today?

3. How does the concept of unity in the body of Christ, as demonstrated by the collection for Jerusalem, challenge us to support believers in different contexts or regions?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that our acts of generosity are well-planned and effectively executed, as Paul instructed the Corinthians?

5. How can church leaders today emulate Paul’s example in encouraging and organizing efforts to meet the needs of others within the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 11:29-30
This passage describes a similar collection for the believers in Judea, showing the early church's practice of supporting one another.

2 Corinthians 8-9
Paul further discusses the collection for the saints, emphasizing generosity and the cheerful giving that pleases God.

Romans 15:25-27
Paul mentions his intention to deliver aid to the saints in Jerusalem, highlighting the unity and mutual support among the early churches.