Significant numbers of Jewish Christians in Jerusalem were impoverished due to famine and persecution.

In addition to alleviating physical suffering, Paul saw the collection as an opportunity:
------------
- For Gentiles who have shared in a spiritual blessings to share their material blessings.

- To demonstrate the genuineness of Gentile Christianity to skeptical Jewish Christians.

- To be a testimony to the unsaved world of the faith and love.

Jewish piety mandated generosity toward the poor but not across ethnic/cultural lines.

In Greco-Roman society, charity was not regarded as virtuous - people only gave to others who were capable of giving them something in return.

Paul expects the Corinthians to do good works for people they have never met so as to bring praise to God, and not to themselves.

This is above and beyond their normal giving to the local church in Corinth.

"Money will either compete with our love for the Lord, or it will complement our love for the Lord."

Principles that undergird Paul’s instructions for the collection:
------------
“first day of every week”
Consistent, not just convenient or when I feel like it.

“let each one of you”
Universal. 100% engagement, not just the wealthy.

“set aside”
Systematic. Pray and plan to give your first and best, not your last and leftover.

“as one has been prospered”
Proportionate. Honor God with whatever prosperity He brings your way.

“no collections might take place when I come”
Prepared. Not haphazard or spur of the moment that feels forced.