How did the early church collect and spend money

[Juan Castaneda]

I am reading an interesting book called, "The Rise of Christianity" which goes into detail on the early history of the church. 

I found the following quote fascinating given our discussion last week (and apparently the prior session) on money and tithing. The quote is from Tertullian, an early church father, who wrote a book called the Apology in 197 A.D.  Tertullian describes the Christian church this way:

"every one puts a little to the public stock, commonly once a month, or when he pleases, and only upon condition that he is both willing and able; for there is no compulsion upon any. All here is a free-will offering, and all these collections are deposited in a common bank for charitable uses, not for the support of merry meetings, for drinking and gormandizing, but for feeding the poor and burying the dead, and providing for girls and boys who have neither parents nor provisions left to support them, for relieving old people worn out in the service of the saints, or those who have suffered by shipwreck, or are condemned to the mines, or islands, or prisons, only for the faith of Christ; these may be said to live upon their profession, for while they suffer for professing the name of Christ, they are fed with the collections of His Church."

Sobering isn't it? What stands out to you guys?  

Much love,

Juan

[Julie Dosch]

Very insightful; thank you, Juan!

Julie

Sent from my iPhone

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[Victor....@carefusion.com]

Thanks for sharing.

These are the two phrases that capture my eyes:

...and only upon condition that he is both willing and able.
...only for the faith of Christ.

It was wonderful that we got to see you all.

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From: prodigal-god...@googlegroups.com [prodigal-god...@googlegroups.com] on behalf of Juan Castaneda [onecas...@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, May 23, 2013 10:42 PM
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Subject: How did the early church collect and spend money

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