Achaia: Benevolence of the Christians In
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Achaia, a region in the southern part of Greece, holds significant importance in the New Testament as a center of early Christian activity. The benevolence of the Christians in Achaia is notably highlighted in the Scriptures, reflecting their commitment to the teachings of Christ and their support for the broader Christian community.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently acknowledges the generosity and charitable spirit of the Achaian believers. In Romans 15:26 (BSB), Paul writes, "For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem." This verse underscores the willingness of the Christians in Achaia to support their fellow believers in Jerusalem, who were experiencing hardship. Their actions exemplify the early Christian principle of mutual aid and the sharing of resources, as taught by Jesus and the apostles.

Furthermore, in 2 Corinthians 9:2 (BSB), Paul commends the readiness of the Achaian church to contribute, stating, "For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your zeal has stirred most of them to do likewise." This passage highlights not only their generosity but also the influential role their example played in encouraging other churches to participate in acts of charity.

The Christians in Achaia were also known for their spiritual gifts and dedication to the faith. In 1 Corinthians 16:15 (BSB), Paul refers to the household of Stephanas, who were "the first converts in Achaia and have devoted themselves to the service of the saints." This devotion to service is a testament to their commitment to living out the Gospel through acts of kindness and support for the Christian community.

The benevolence of the Achaian Christians is further illustrated in their support for Paul's ministry. In 2 Corinthians 11:9 (BSB), Paul mentions, "And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so." While this verse specifically mentions Macedonian support, it is understood within the broader context of the cooperative spirit among the churches in Greece, including Achaia, in supporting apostolic missions.

The example set by the Christians in Achaia serves as a model of Christian charity and community support, reflecting the teachings of Christ to love one another and to care for those in need. Their actions are a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel and the unity of the early Church in its mission to spread the message of Christ through both word and deed.
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Romans 15:26
For it has pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem.
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2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has provoked very many.
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2 Corinthians 11:10
As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.
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Library

Acts XX
... No nobler instance of disinterested benevolence can be found ... his tour through Macedonia
and Achaia and back ... custom is universally admitted by Christians of the ...
/.../mcgarvey/a commentary on acts of the apostles/acts xx.htm

The Uproar in Ephesus.
... His unexhausted benevolence sought new channels of communication. ... he had passed through
Macedonia, and Achaia, to go ... in his Epistle to the Christians of that ...
/.../dick/lectures on the acts of the apostles/lecture xxiii the uproar in.htm

Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200
... Persecutions of Christians became more frequent, and thereby the popular
conviction was deepened that Christians were malefactors. ...
/.../a source book for ancient church history/period iii the critical period .htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... though these privileges were only for the Catholic Church, and not for heretics
(e); and he passed such laws as would make it possible for Christians to carry ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... comfortable shining of his merciful face on them that were therein; the wall I thought
was the Word, that did make separation between the Christians and the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

Resources
Who was Titus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is an offertory? | GotQuestions.org

What is a church supposed to do with the offerings it receives? | GotQuestions.org

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