To Have a Healthy Church

A Generous Church

Originally preached on February 16, 2025.

scripture

1 Corinthians 16:1–4

Series

How to Have a Healthy Church

summary

In 1 Corinthians 16:1–4, Paul teaches the church how to respond to financial need, showing that a healthy church is a generous church. Christian giving should be consistent, set aside regularly rather than sporadically; proportional, reflecting how God has blessed each believer; deliberate, planned rather than impulsive; and transparent, handled with accountability and integrity. Through these instructions, Paul reminds the church that generosity is not merely about meeting needs but is a tangible expression of gospel-shaped love and faithful stewardship.

A Generous Church (1 Corinthians 16:1-4)
Aaron Halstead

A Family Worth Staying For

Originally preached on February 23, 2025.

scripture

1 Corinthians 16:5–12

Series

How to Have a Healthy Church

summary

A healthy church is a family worth staying for because it is marked by presence, hospitality, and unity. Paul values staying together and investing real time in one another, not just quick visits. The church should be a place where people are welcomed like family, regardless of status or background, as seen in Timothy’s reception. And it must remain unified around Jesus, not personalities or preferences.

A Family Worth Staying For (1 Corinthians 16:5-12)
Aaron Halstead

What's Your Motivation?

Originally preached on March 3, 2025.

scripture

1 Corinthians 16:13–24

Series

How to Have a Healthy Church

summary

1 Corinthians 16:13–24 closes Paul’s letter by showing that a healthy church is defined by one controlling motivation: love. His final commands to be watchful, firm, strong, and courageous are all summed up in “let all that you do be done in love.” Paul then shows what this looks like in practice—honoring faithful servants, living with genuine unity, practicing wise discipline, extending grace, and remaining rooted in Christ. The church may be marked by doctrine and strength, but it is truly healthy only when everything flows from love for God, one another, and the world.

What's Your Motivation? (1 Corinthians 16:13-24)
Aaron Halstead