1 Corinthians 16:1-2
Read 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
Helpful Background Information:
Paul himself planted the church in Corinth (see Acts 18) in an urban area. Corinth contained an important trade route in the ancient world, making it known for being a hub of sexual immortality, religious diversity and pluralism, and corruption.
Paul wrote his first letter to the church in Corinth in about 55 AD. This letter is known for several teaching points, as Paul covers so much ground in his instruction to them. He “addresses many practical questions dividing the church—questions concerning such things as spiritual gifts, marriage, food offered to idols, and the importance of the resurrection. Paul urged the Corinthians to be unified and to give themselves fully to ‘the work of the Lord’ (15:58)” (ESV, Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016).
It is important to remember that Paul is likely writing this letter in response to the Corinthians reaching out to him for help and Godly counsel. We know this because Paul writes at the beginning of chapter 7, “Now concerning the matters about which you wrote…” (7:1, emphasis added). This helps us to remember, as we read, that Paul is not writing a systematic theology for us to read. Rather, he is writing pastorally, inspired and guided by the Spirit. Not only this, but he’s writing in response to the needs of the first-century Corinthian church … in a first-century urban Gentile context … dealing with specific issues in that church. Let us keep this in mind as we proceed.
Chapter 16 brings us to the last chapter of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. He opens this with guidelines on how to give in a way that will bless not only them, but God’s Church for the sake of the gospel.
Reflection Questions:
What connections do you see in this passage, 1 Cor. 16:1-2, and our main passage for the week: 1 Tim. 6:17-19? Write down at least 3 connections.
What is one word/phrase you would use to summarize Paul’s command to the Corinthian believers about their giving unto the Lord? (Example answer: “Proactive generosity”). Write down 3 of these words/phrases.
How does your attitude toward giving reflect your trust in God as your Provider?
How can you prepare in advance to give with joy, rather than waiting to give reactively or out of obligation? Write down your answer(s).