Bible Dictionary
CONTRIBUTION
A contribution is a gift given to meet the needs of others. In the early church, such offerings expressed fellowship in Christ and were given freely, regularly, and according to each person’s means.
Biblical Usage
The early church first collected for needy members in Jerusalem. Gentile churches later sent aid to the poor there, extending fellowship from local congregations to the wider church. Gifts were gathered weekly, proportioned to the giver’s means, and sent by accredited representatives.