1 Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: 2 On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. (1 Corinthians 16:1–2, NKJV)
The church is not a business. Yet, most churches around the world are organized and operated as if they are. Businesses exist to make money. Churches exist to do the God-given work of evangelism, spiritual edification, and to address benevolent needs of the saints (Acts 2:42-46; 5:12-14; 11:27-30). Churches are given one Scriptural way to gather funds to accomplish their work: Voluntary giving on the first day of the week. This is the one passage in the New Testament that teaches the churches when, who, and how to gather funds, and also why to do so this way. When do we give? (The first day of the week.) Who gives? (Each one of you.) How do we give? (According to our prosperity.) Why give this way? (So that the collection is in readiness for use.) There is no business and investment revenue, no board of directors, and no chief financial officer in the Scriptures. May we add our own ways? No. Does this matter? Yes, because the church belongs to Christ, it is the house of God, not our business to arrange and control according to the latest business model. God’s word, not man’s wisdom, must direct the organization and work of the local church.
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