Blog: Gary Scott
November 11, 2015
From the histories that we have of surviving churches that were started by pioneers, we learn that many engaged early on in fundraising to finance their activities, endeavors, and projects. Some of these activities led to the organization of Women’s Aid Societies. Many of these churches still have dinners, pancake suppers, bingo nights, festivals, carnivals, sales, and raffles. By these methods, they enlist broader support from the community, resulting in more funds being raised.
However, the New Testament never mentions anything like this. What it does set forth is the disciples supporting what was being done by contributing into the common treasury. That was what was done in the Jerusalem church. “And all that believed were together, and had all things common;” Acts 2:14. “For neither were there among any that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things sold, and laid them at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto each, according as anyone had need.” Acts 4:34-35
Then to the church at Corinth Paul wrote, “Upon the first day of the week let each one of you lay by him in store, as he may prosper, that no collections be made when I come.” 1 Corinthians 16:2. These instructions were not for the Corinthians only, but “as I gave order to the churches of Galatia, so also do ye.” 1 Corinthians 16:1. In fact, what Paul taught in one church he taught in all. “Even as I teach everywhere in every church.” 1 Corinthians 4:14. Concerning everyone laying by in store upon the first day of the week, he adds, “Let each man do according as he hath purposed in his heart: not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:9. Thus the work of the church is to be financed by the weekly freewill, generous giving of its members: not by human fundraising schemes.