Thematic Bible: Instances of giving
Thematic Bible
Alms » Instances of giving » The early Christians
And all the believers [in Jesus] were together and shared everything. They sold their belongings and property and divided [the money] among all [the believers] according to each one's need.
And no one lacked anything, for all who owned property or houses sold [some of] them and brought the money and gave it to the apostles, who distributed it to each person who had a need. And Joseph, who was called by the apostles, Barnabas (which means "son of encouragement"), was a descendant of the Jewish tribe of Levi, whose family originated from [the island of] Cyprus. read more.
He owned a field, but [due to the great need] sold it and brought the money and gave it to the apostles [for distribution].
He owned a field, but [due to the great need] sold it and brought the money and gave it to the apostles [for distribution].
Now during the days when the disciples were multiplying in number [in Jerusalem. See verse 7], some Greek-[speaking] Jews began to complain to the Hebrews that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution [of food]. So, the twelve apostles called the whole group of disciples together and said to them, "It is not right that we should neglect preaching the word of God in order to serve meals [to people]. Brothers, select from among you seven men with good reputations, who are full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we can appoint to take care of this matter.
[In response to this prediction], the disciples decided to send as much relief as they could to help the brothers living in Judea. So, they sent [what was donated] to the elders [of the Judean churches] by Barnabas and Saul.
"Now after several years I came [to Jerusalem] to bring relief for the poor people of my nation and to present my offerings.
Verse Concepts
But for now, I am on my way to Jerusalem to minister to [the needs of] God's holy people there. For [the Christians in] Macedonia and Achaia [Note: These were provinces in Greece] thought it was a good idea to take up an offering for the poor saints at Jerusalem. For they thought it was a good idea, and [besides] they were indebted to those Jewish Christians. For if the Gentiles [have] shared in the spiritual blessings of the Jews, [then] they owe it to those Jews to help meet their material needs. read more.
So, when I have completed this task, and have guaranteed [the safe delivery of] this offering to them, I will visit you on my way to Spain.
So, when I have completed this task, and have guaranteed [the safe delivery of] this offering to them, I will visit you on my way to Spain.
Now concerning the collection for the [needy] saints [whom you wrote me about]: You people also should do what I directed the churches in Galatia to do. On every first day of the week [i.e., at the regular Sunday assembly] each one of you should set aside and store up [money] in proportion to your income, so that no collections will have to be taken when I come. Then when I arrive, I will send letters with the men you appoint to take the gift to Jerusalem. read more.
And if it seems suitable for me to go also, they can go with me.
And if it seems suitable for me to go also, they can go with me.
Now, brothers, we want you to know about the favor God has given to the churches in Macedonia. [It is] how, in spite of their suffering severe trials, their overflowing joy and extreme poverty produced an overwhelming expression of generosity. For I testify that they gave [financial help] to the full limit of their ability, yes and even beyond it. [And they did this] entirely on their own, read more.
[even] pleading with us and requesting the privilege of taking part in this service to the saints [i.e., God's holy people] in Jerusalem. [See also 9:1-15; I Cor. 16:1-2; Rom. 15:25-28].
[even] pleading with us and requesting the privilege of taking part in this service to the saints [i.e., God's holy people] in Jerusalem. [See also 9:1-15; I Cor. 16:1-2; Rom. 15:25-28].
Now it is unnecessary for me to write you about this service to God's holy people [in Jerusalem, who were in need].
Verse Concepts
For God is not [so] unjust as to forget the work you are doing and the love you have shown for Him, as you ministered to the saints [i.e., His holy people] and continue to minister [to them].
Verse Concepts
Alms » Instances of giving » Zaccheus
Then Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord, I [plan to] give half of my possessions to poor people. And if I have cheated anyone out of something, [I promise] to repay them four times as much."
Verse Concepts
Alms » Instances of giving » Cornelius
He was very devoted [to his religious principles] and had great respect for God, along with the members of his household. He gave [money] liberally to poor people and prayed to God regularly.
Verse Concepts
Alms » Instances of giving » Dorcas
Now at Joppa [Note: This was also a town on the west coast of Palestine, today called "Jaffa," and is now a part of Tel Aviv] there was a certain disciple named Tabitha (she was also called Dorcas, which means "Gazelle"). She practiced many good deeds and always gave money to poor people.
Verse Concepts