1. Acts 4:32-35

2.  We must avoid two extremes:  acting without scriptural authority - 2 John 9  failing to do what we ought - Revelation 3:15-16  What is the scriptural work of the local church in giving material aid to the needy?

3.  The local church is more limited than the individual Christian in its authorized benevolent work. - 1 Timothy 5:16  The work of the local church reflects the nature of the relationship. - Ephesians 1:3,22-23  When a local church uses its funds, it is an expression of fellowship in Christ. - 2 Corinthians 8:1-4

4.  Acts 16:25  Romans 15:9  1 Corinthians 14:15  Ephesians 5:18-19  Colossians 3:16  Hebrews 2:12  James 5:13  Shall we add instrumental music, another kind of music? - 2 Timothy 1:13  What happens if we go beyond the divine pattern? - 2 John 9

5.  Acts 2:44-45  Acts 4:32-35  Acts 6:1-4  Acts 11:27-30  Romans 15:25-26  1 Corinthians 16:1-2  2 Corinthians 8:4  2 Corinthians 9:1,12-13  1 Timothy 5:16  Shall we add sinners, another kind of people? - 2 Timothy 1:13  What happens if we go beyond the divine pattern? - 2 John 9

6.  Galatians 6:10, cf. Verses 1-9  James 1:27, cf. Verses 19-26

7.  The widow indeed was the only permanent charge of the church. - 1 Timothy 5:16  The local church is limited in its work of benevolence to the relief of needy saints.. - Acts 4:34-35  It is not the work of the church to eliminate poverty, provide the world’s medical needs, or eliminate the world’s social ills. - Romans 14:17; 1 Timothy 3:14-15

8.  This pattern establishes a responsibility which the local church must not shirk. - 2 Corinthians 8:24.  But it is also an exclusive pattern we must neither change nor violate. - 2 John 9  Let us abound in the work of the Lord. - 1 Corinthians 15:58