1 Corinthians 16:2 Meaning: First-Day Giving

The phrase “On the first day of the week” translates the Greek kata mian sabbatou. Kata has a distributive force, “every first day”, not just one Sunday. Sabbatou here means “week,” a use common in the New Testament. So Paul envisions a regular, weekly habit.

The word “lay by him in store” is one verb: thēsaurizōn, meaning “treasuring up.” It paints a picture of carefully putting something aside, like storing a treasure. This is not a casual toss into a box. It is intentional saving.

Finally, “as he may prosper” comes from euodōtai, which originally meant “to have a good journey.” By Paul’s time it had broadened to “to succeed, to prosper.” The point is proportional giving, not a fixed amount, but a portion that grows with the blessings God gives.

Christians have read this verse in different ways for centuries. Some, like many early Protestants and Catholics, see it as establishing a pattern for weekly giving on the Lord’s Day, a habit that forms discipline and charity. Others, like some Reformed commentators, stress that Paul’s main concern was practical: avoid a disorganized collection when he arrives. They note that the Greek phrase “by himself” ( par’ heautō ) suggests setting money aside at home, not necessarily in the church assembly. The verse does not explicitly command weekly worship on Sunday, though it shows that the first day already held special significance for Christians. Both sides agree that the heart of the instruction is intentional, proportional, and regular giving.

Some read this verse and think Paul commands a tithe, a fixed ten percent of income. In fact, he says “as he may prosper.” The amount is proportional to what God gives, not a set percentage. The early church fathers and the Reformers alike understood giving as free and based on blessing, not a law. The verse points to generosity that adjusts with your circumstances, not a rigid rule.

This week, consider one small change. Pick a day, maybe Sunday, maybe payday, and set aside a portion of what you received. It can be a small amount. The point is to make giving a habit, not a last-minute reaction. Paul wanted the Corinthians to have the money ready so that giving came from a settled heart, not pressure. So try this: each time income comes in, pause and put something aside for God’s work. It might be for your church, for someone in need, or for a ministry you trust. You might be surprised how even a little, set aside regularly, grows into something real.