Building Healthy Church Communities Part 20 Final Episode

Welcome back to our series on Growing Healthy Church Communities. Today, we conclude our journey through 1 Corinthians by exploring Chapter 16, where the Apostle Paul provides practical instructions that are profoundly relevant for the church today.

Transcript

Welcome back to our series on Growing Healthy Church Communities. Today, we conclude our journey through 1 Corinthians by exploring Chapter 16, where the Apostle Paul provides practical instructions that are profoundly relevant for the church today.

Paul begins by addressing the collection for the saints in Jerusalem:

“Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do.” (1 Corinthians 16:1)

He instructs the Corinthians to set aside funds systematically:

“On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. Don’t wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once.” (1 Corinthians 16:2)

This practice encourages intentional and regular giving, fostering a culture of generosity. It’s essential to understand that Paul doesn’t present giving as a legalistic obligation but as a heartfelt response to God’s grace and to need.

In 2 Corinthians 9:7, he emphasizes, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

For us today, implementing regular offerings not only supports those in need but also unites us in a shared mission of compassion and outreach.

Generosity is always a feature of a healthy church community, but we need to be accountable for how these offerings are used and ensure that we prioritise supporting those in need.

Paul outlines his travel plans and mentions fellow workers like Timothy and Apollos:

“When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am.” (1 Corinthians 16:10)

“Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to visit you…” (1 Corinthians 16:12)

By highlighting various leaders, Paul demonstrates the importance of collaborative ministry. Healthy church communities today benefit from diverse leadership and input from different ministry gifts. These different ministry gifts work together to provide diversity and different perspectives which help advance the Gospel.

Within the local church community collaborative leadership strengthens the love and communication. Collaboration with ministry within the broader body of Christ also enriches the local church family.

Paul exhorts the Corinthians:

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

These verses call for vigilance, steadfastness, and strength, all rooted in love.

A thriving church is one where members are spiritually alert, grounded in their beliefs, and motivated by love in all actions. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, without love, even the most impressive deeds are meaningless.

Paul commends the household of Stephanas:

“Now I urge you, brothers—you know that the household of Stephanas…have devoted themselves to the service of the saints—be subject to such as these.” (1 Corinthians 16:15-16)

He emphasizes the value of servant leadership and encourages the congregation to respect and support those who dedicate themselves to serving others. Modern churches grow stronger when they honor and collaborate with such leaders.

We need to value those who have been faithful in ministry over many years by recognising their spiritual oversight and authority.

Paul shares how fellow believers have refreshed his spirit:

“I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus…for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours.” (1 Corinthians 16:17-18)

Encouragement and mutual support are vital for a healthy church community. By uplifting one another, members build resilience and unity within the body of Christ. As Hebrews 10:24-25 urges, we should “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together…but encouraging one another.”

In his closing, Paul writes:

“My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (1 Corinthians 16:24)

He underscores that all actions and teachings should be enveloped in love and grace. For contemporary churches, maintaining an environment where love prevails ensures that all endeavors reflect the heart of Christ. As Jesus taught in John 13:34-35, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you…By this all people will know that you are my disciples.”

Final thoughts:

1 Corinthians 16 offers timeless principles that, when applied, can transform church communities. By fostering generosity, embracing collaborative leadership, standing firm in faith and love, recognizing servant leaders, encouraging one another, and prioritizing love and grace, the church today can mirror the vibrant, resilient, and Christ-centered community Paul envisioned.

Thank you for joining me in this series on Growing Healthy Church Communities.

I trust the insights that we have studied from 1 Corinthians inspire and guide your journey in nurturing a flourishing and healthy church community.

In my next podcast series we will be studying Paul’s letter to the Ephesians where we will focus on the theme of spiritual and emotional healing and restoration.

Until then may the Lord continue to equip and empower you in your ministry to His Body.