4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift [grace]
The Macedonian church was in financial need, but they insisted that they wanted to give to others. They pleaded with Paul to accept their gift to the Jerusalem church. This is the opposite of pressing people to provide. The Macedonians insisted that they contribute to those in need. Paul put no pressure on them.
and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
The Macedonian churches wanted to share in relieving the saints in Jerusalem of their poverty due to persecution. Giving is a ministry. It is also a “fellowship” with other Christians. It is a partnership in ministry (Php 1:5, 7).
PRINCIPLE:
Those who give to the cause of Christ are willing channels of God’s blessing.
APPLICATION:
Financial giving to the church is an expression of the grace of God upon one’s life. It is a fellowship or partnership with other saints toward the church.
