1 Corinthians 16:15 - “You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints.”

There is a lot of talk right now about “values” and family issues in our society.  The Bible has a lot to say about families beyond the basic “rules” about morality and implied gender distinctive.  In Exodus 10:13 it says that God’s people had light in their homes even when the world around them was engulfed in darkness and confusion. God’s light – his revelation – comes to us through the Holy Spirit. We believe God wants His people to have the Holy Spirit operating in their homes and within their families.

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1 Corinthians 16:1-3 – “Now about the collection for God’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.“

The New Testament indicates that we should avoid collecting tithes or offerings in a way that 1) makes people feel pressured; 2) gives an opportunity for wealthier church members to show off; or 3) makes it appear that the church or the pastors are interested mostly in people’s money.  It appears from the Bible that the church in the Apostolic Era did not ask for money or take offerings during their public services.

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