1 Corinthians 16:1-4·~1 min

The Collection for the Saints

Paul tells the Corinthians to do for the saints' collection what he directed the churches of Galatia: on the first day of every week each person should set aside something according to income, so that no last-minute collections will be needed when he comes. Then approved representatives can take the gift to Jerusalem with letters, and Paul may travel with them if that proves advisable.

N¹ow about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia: ²On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will be needed. ³Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem. ⁴And if it is advisable for me to go also, they can travel with me.

Section summaryPaul begins the closing chapter with practical direction for the collection being gathered for the saints, asking the Corinthians to follow the same pattern he has given elsewhere. The collection is to be orderly, prepared in advance, and entrusted to approved representatives rather than assembled hastily when he arrives.

Role in the chapterThis opening section turns resurrection's steadfastness into concrete shared care. It shows the church's material generosity as part of its common life with other churches.