On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. 1 Corinthians 16:2 NIV
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 NIV
The young man looked at me from across the table after expressing his opinion on a subject close to his heart. He looked at me for just a moment and then said with a smile and wink, “Are you picking up what I’m laying down?” I laughed and assured him that I 100% got it.
Let’s be sure that we all pick up what Paul was laying down to the new believers in the young Corinthian church. He told them that giving should be a regular discipline because of their relationship with Jesus. I should not give because I “have to,” because of pressure, but because I cheerfully and willingly have decided to participate with God’s mission in this world.
Then he addressed the issue of “taking special collections.” Paul was a Jew, raised in the synagogue and well-trained in all God said. He knew that God had set up financial systems for the people that were just and fair to everyone. The percentage was the same for everyone, so it worked out equally. Jesus leaned into that and urged us to do even more – have such a close relationship with Him that we understand the heart of God for loving and rescuing people, building His Kingdom for everyone in the world. Jesus urged radical generosity with all our resources. He said that is an identifier of His disciples. When Jesus followers in a local church do as Paul and Jesus said, giving regularly and generously in the style of Jesus, there is little need for special collections and campaigns that feel pressurized. There is money for the need.
But since that is NOT what happens, the church is compelled to appeal for money instead of relying on regular giving. While three-quarters of churchgoers agree that tithing is a biblical command, the average Christian in fact gives between 2.5% and 3% of their income. Yes, the tithe (10%) is an Old Testament command so a person can say we are not required. Paul would agree. That’s why he said to give cheerfully what you have decided. But if 10% was the standard for people who still had to sacrifice animals and other resources regularly to God, doesn’t it stand to reason that we who have been freely forgiven and have Jesus with us always would want to do all we can for Him and His Kingdom?
- Jesus, You have given all for me. Help me want to do all I can to spread Your love and purpose in the world. Together our resources will do more than I ever could alone, more than my resources for sure. Thank You for the privilege of partnering with You and the church.