ACC ~ 1 Corinthians 16 v1 - 4

OVERVIEW:

The church is called to put something aside for the Lord’s day, the day of resurrection, on which we received all the blessings we now have (CHRYSOSTOM). The collection was to be doubly beneficial to the poor and to the saints of Jerusalem (AMBROSIASTER).

16:1 | The Contribution

THE GALATIAN CONTRIBUTION. CHRYSOSTOM: Paul encourages the Corinthians by mentioning the Galatians, because they would surely be ashamed to be found inferior to such provincials. HOMILIES ON THE EPISTLES OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS 43.1.

16:2 | Put Something Aside

FOR THE LORD’S DAY. CHRYSOSTOM: The day itself was enough to encourage them to give alms. For the Lord’s day was the day on which we received all the blessings which we now have. It is the root and the beginning of our new life in Christ. This is not the only reason that it is suitable for almsgiving, however. It is also the day of rest, when our souls can relax from their toils and open themselves to show pity. Moreover, participation in holy Communion on that day instills great zeal in us. HOMILIES ON THE EPISTLES OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS 43.2.

16:3 | Carrying the Gift to Jerusalem

FOR JERUSALEM AND THE POOR. AMBROSIASTER: This collection was doubly beneficial, because it helped the saints mentioned above and also the poor people who were in the church. COMMENTARY ON PAUL’S EPISTLES.

THOSE ACCREDITED. CHRYSOSTOM: Paul leaves it up to the Corinthians to choose the carriers of his message, so as to avoid showing any partiality. HOMILIES ON THE EPISTLES OF PAUL TO THE CORINTHIANS 43.4.

16:4 | Accompanying Paul

A GENEROUS COLLECTION. AMBROSIASTER: Paul is saying that if the collection is generous, he can go too. For if a bishop is going, he ought to take a large amount with him. COMMENTARY ON PAUL’S EPISTLES.