Benevolence Policy

 
I.  The Purpose
 
The leadership of Boquete Bible Fellowship believes God is calling us to establish a I Corinthians 16 Benevolence Fund to assist needy and hurting believers in our body and the Boquete area.  We believe that the instructions in I Corinthians 16 set an emphasis on helping fellow believers in need.  We are not saying that this is a prescription and model for all believers for all time; however, we do believe that the Lord, as head of our church, has directed us, BBF, to follow the commands given to the Corinthian church and the churches in Galatia to determine a weekly amount to give as He has prospered us.  
 
At BBF we also set aside a significant portion of the tithes and offerings for evangelism and church planting as well as disaster relief in Chiriqui.
 
II.  The Biblical Basis
 
I Corinthians 16:1-2, “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also.  On the first day of every week, let each one of you put aside and save, as God has prospered you.”
 
III.  The Plan
 
Every Sunday, all members/regular attenders of Boquete Bible Fellowship will, thoughtfully and prayerfully, consider how the Lord has blessed them during the previous week, and give an amount to the I Corinthians 16 Benevolence Fund.  This could be 25 cents, $1, $10, or $1,000 to help hurting and needy Christians.
 
Caveat:  Please do not give any of your normal tithe amounts to this fund!
 
IV.  The Anticipated Blessing to Boquete Bible Fellowship Members and Church Body
 
1)  We are reminded of God’s goodness to us and how He is taking care of us.  “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.  For His lovingkindness is everlasting.” – Psalm 136:1
 
2)  We are encouraged to trust Him more and more – it grows our faith!  “Those who know Thy name will put their trust in Thee.” – Psalm 9:10
 
3)  We are encouraged to thank and praise Him for His goodness and blessings.  “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.” – Psalm 118:29
 
4)  We are building treasures in Heaven.  “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” – Matthew 6:21
 
5)  We are encouraged to pray for those who receive our money
 
6)  We are ultimately creating unity and oneness in the body through this common project and walking in obedience to the Father’s command “To be one, just as God the Father and God the Son are One.” – John 17:22