In the New Testament, the early church established guidelines for providing support to individuals and ministries within the Christian community. These criteria were rooted in principles of stewardship, charity, and the advancement of the Gospel. The Berean Standard Bible provides several passages that outline these criteria.

1. Support for Widows: The Apostle Paul provides specific instructions regarding the support of widows in the church. In 1 Timothy 5:3-16, Paul emphasizes that only widows who are truly in need and have no family to care for them should be supported by the church. He writes, "Honor the widows who are truly widows" (1 Timothy 5:3). Paul further specifies that a widow must be at least sixty years old, have been faithful to her husband, and be known for good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, and helping those in trouble (1 Timothy 5:9-10).

2. Support for Ministers and Teachers: The New Testament also addresses the support of those who labor in preaching and teaching. In 1 Timothy 5:17-18, Paul states, "The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, 'Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,' and 'The worker is worthy of his wages'" . This passage underscores the importance of providing for those who dedicate themselves to the ministry of the Word.

3. Support for Missionary Work: The early church was committed to the spread of the Gospel, and this included supporting missionaries. In Philippians 4:15-18, Paul commends the Philippian church for their financial support, saying, "Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only" . This demonstrates the church's role in supporting missionary endeavors.

4. Support for the Poor: The New Testament church was also called to care for the poor and needy. In Galatians 2:10, Paul recounts the agreement with the other apostles to "remember the poor," which he was eager to do . Acts 4:34-35 describes how early believers sold possessions and distributed the proceeds to anyone in need, ensuring that "there was no needy person among them" .

5. Principles of Generosity and Stewardship: The overarching principle for church support is one of generosity and wise stewardship. In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul writes, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver" . This passage highlights the importance of giving willingly and joyfully.

6. Accountability and Integrity: The administration of church support requires accountability and integrity. In 2 Corinthians 8:20-21, Paul emphasizes the importance of handling financial matters honorably, stating, "We hope to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this generous gift. For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men" .

These criteria reflect the early church's commitment to caring for its members, supporting its leaders, and advancing the mission of the Gospel, all while maintaining a spirit of generosity and integrity.