1 Corinthians 16:3

And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem (KJV)

Then: Paul announces both his intent to come wants to be able to talk with a pre-appointed travel team. There were no banks then. The designated carriers will have the money in high value coins, find a way to strap them to their person and travel all the while hoping not to be robbed, hurt, etc. Baker (241) also adds that the Corinthians would then have a personal contact in Jerusalem at the same time the recipients could be aware of Gentile, non-Jewish, believers.

Now: People like to give money when they know the extent of the need and have personal knowledge of the recipients. They also like to share in the joy of bringing new believers into the church universal. Missionaries receive better, long-term support when they schedule intermittent reports and visits with church groups. This is easier done for local missions, but is still necessary for foreign missions.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:2

Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come (KJV)

Then: What Paul wants is to have everything collected before he arrives. Before, he's never wanted money to be part of his ministry because that would skew the message of Christ's forgiveness. If everyone knows ahead the collection is for other church's and the process completed, Corinthians are less likely to think about Paul as one who asked for money. Wright (p. 231) also notes that Paul was also removing any bases of possible accusations of fraud.

Now: Believers have used Paul's plan in the churches for many years. The sacrament of giving is a traditional part of serving God. A recommended tithe of ten percent is based on Old Testament teachings, but the amount is always a personal commitment between the individual and the Lord.

1 Corinthians 16:1

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye (KJV)

Then: Clear statement, new topic. Corinthians hearing it knew that instructions were coming to clear up an old problem about sending money to the Jerusalem churches. Baker (p. 239) speculates that the money would be used for the poor there and to defray costs of the annual pilgrims staying with Christian hosts (in the past might have used Jewish homes, but those no longer available).

Now: A part of the process of "Love one another" involves paying attention to the needs of others and helping, as possible. Although impulsive responses to sudden needs happen, planning for regular giving and participation in serving God with worldly goods makes better sense. It ensures the wise use of funds and relieves some of the anxiety of those in need.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.