• I Peter 4:11
  • The most important work of the church is supporting the preaching of the gospel.
  • Acts 24:17 – Paul mentioned alms, but not in the context of benevolence.
  • Acts 2:42-45 – They were some in Jerusalem who were unavoidably destitute. The saints brought money to go into a common fund to be distributed to those who had need.
  • Acts 4:32, 34-35
  • Acts 6:1-4 – Men were selected to handle benevolence. Preaching was still the priority!
  • Acts 11:27-30 – The sending church selected its own means to get the money to the congregation that had need. The elders of the receiving church controlled the distribution of the funds. The relief was specifically directed to needy saints.
  • Romans 15:25-27, 30-31 – Benevolence was not to convert people. Only saints are eligible to be relieved by the church.
  • I Corinthians 16:1-4 – Each one is to give as he has prospered on the first day of every week. This is the only way God has authorized a local church to get funds to do the work He has assigned.
  • II Corinthians 8:1-5, 12-15
  • II Corinthians 9:1, 12-15 – “All” here is referring to the Jewish saints.
  • I Timothy 5:16 – The church is limited to relieving only those who are widows indeed. If family is available to help, they should help instead of burdening the church.