1 Corinthians 16:2, Let Every One of You Lay By Him in Store

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1 Corinthians 16:2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.

This text sets the precedence for the collection of gifts on the first day of the week when the church comes together for worship, on the Lord’s Day, the day where our Lord was risen from the dead. The idea of this giving is for everyone of the believers to participate as God enables them, they are to give.

William MacDonald observed well, “Although the instructions given in verse 2 were for a specific collection, yet the principles involved are of abiding value. First of all, the laying by of funds was to be done on the first day of the week. Here we have a very strong indication that the early Christians no longer regarded the Sabbath or seventh day as an obligatory observance. The Lord had risen on the first day of the week, the Day of Pentecost was on the first day of the week, and the disciples gathered together on the first day of the week to break bread (Acts 20:7). Now they are to lay something aside for the saints on the first day of the week.”

He further observed well, “The second important principle is that the instructions concerning the collections were for each one. Rich and poor, slave and free, all were to have a part in the sacrifice of giving of their possessions. Further, this was to be done systematically. On the first day of the week they were to lay something aside, storing up. It was not to be haphazard, or reserved for special occasions. The gift was to be set aside from other money and devoted to special use as occasion demanded. Their giving was also to be proportionate. This is indicated by the expression as he may prosper. That there be no collections when I come. The Apostle Paul did not want this to be a matter of last-minute arrangement. He realized the serious possibility of giving without due preparation of heart or pocketbook.”

Thank the Lord for this instruction on the doctrine of giving. Amen.