A number of reasons could be given as to why the early Christians were liberal in their giving. But Paul makes a statement that explains it quite briefly in 2 Corinthians 8:1-5.
FIRST, those Macedonian brethren gave freely and willingly, and not from compulsion. Such is reminiscent of when the Jews gave to build the tabernacle (Exodus 25:2).
SECOND, they gave liberally to the Lord, even though they were poverty stricken. They had the same spirit of the widow in Luke 21:1-4.
THIRD, they gave beyond expectations. Moffatt says, “That up to their means, aye, and beyond their means, they have given.” Many live beyond their means, but few give beyond it.
FOURTH, they gave enthusiastically. By way of comparison, how often do we see church members as enthusiastic about giving to God as they are in giving their money to some secular organization or for tickets to a ball game.
FIFTH, they conceived of their giving as a fellowship. To them giving was not a blight to be endured, but a blessing in which they could share.
SIXTH, they FIRST gave of their own selves. In other words, they were genuinely converted. When one is genuinely converted to the Lord, the matter of consecrating material possessions will not be difficult. The reason many are stingy and covetous is that they have never really given themselves. The giving of money is easy if we have previously given ourselves.
Borrowed