WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES ABOUT GIVING
Generosity is not merely a transaction; it is a spiritual practice that reflects the heart of God. Through faithful stewardship, we acknowledge that everything we have is a gift from Him, intended to be shared for the growth of His kingdom.
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
Bible teaches us that each of us should give what we have decided in our hearts to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
The Blessing of First Fruits
Honoring God with our wealth and with the best of everything we produce ensures His divine presence and blessing on the remainder of our resources.
Stewards of Grace
As stewards, we understand that we own nothing and manage everything for God’s glory. Giving is our active response to His boundless grace.
A Promise of Multiplying
Giving is like sowing seeds; what we plant into the kingdom of God, He multiplies to meet our needs and touch the lives of others.
GIVING: BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES
Giving is the nature of God:
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life" John 3:16
The greatest gift God ever gave to humanity is the gift of himself in Christ Jesus, therefore, the basis of Christian giving is that it is a grateful response to the generosity of God. The Christian giving is an act of gratitude and worship resulting from God's graciousness.
See 1 Chronicles Ch.29 for a clear and thorough understanding of this Truth.
The biblical tithe is a voluntary contribution of one-tenth (10%) of one's income to God through the local church (the worship assembly) and its importance stems from both spiritual and practical reasons. It is neither an Old Testament nor New Testament law, it is a kingdom principle that predates both. Spiritually, it is seen as an act of worship and a demonstration of trust in God as the ultimate provider. Practically, tithes fund the church's operations, ministries, and outreach, which can include paying staff, supporting missionaries, and helping the community. The tithes is paid to the local assembly where the believer serves, worships and nurtured. It cannot be paid or used elsewhere just as income tax is paid in the country of domicile.
Spiritual Importance of the tithe
- Anti-Idolatry Law - protects us from idolatry and paganism ie breaking the A part of the 10 commandments: the first four commandments which are anti idolatry laws that teach the preeminence and exclusivity of God. Idolatry is the highest and most grievous of all God’s Laws. Self-centeredness and rebellion is at the heart of all Idolatry.
- Token proof of Covenant with God: only those in a covenant relationship with God were required and still required to do this. God is always faithful to His word and covenant
- A moral and legal duty and proof of belonging - Divine Taxation Law of the Kingdom for Citizens and permanent residents of the Kingdom of God.
- Proof of Honour and Fear of God Principle - Isaac was both a tithe and first fruit required of Abraham on behalf of his descendants.
- Expression of faith and trust: Tithing is a way to express confidence and trust that God will provide for your needs, showing reliance on Him rather than just your own income. You will remain an outsider only looking in from the outside.
- Demonstrates worship: It is an act of worship and gratitude that acknowledges God's sovereignty and that everything you have is a gift from Him. It says expressly that God you are my creator, my source, my provider and my helper.
- Protects and Changes your heart: The act of giving can help change your heart by prioritizing God and reminding you of His faithfulness, especially during difficult times.
- Breaks the stronghold of the spirit of greed and selfishness.
- Keeps curses, demons and devourers away (a spiritual shield and defence).
- A receipt of faith and grounds for divine expectation from God to protect and supply.
Practical Importance
- Supports the local church assembly where we worship, serve and are nurtured: Tithes are used to cover the costs of running the church, such as paying staff, maintaining the building, and hosting events just as every government is funded by its citizens or population.
- Funds ministries and evangelism: A significant portion of tithes goes to supporting church ministries, both locally and globally.
- Helps the community: Tithes often support missions and charitable work, helping to care for the needy in the community (faith and non faith communities).
'BIBLE ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CHRISTIAN FAITH & LIFE, Chapter 75
AVENUES & OPTIONS OF GIVING
We provide several convenient ways for you to partner with us in ministry. Your generosity directly supports our local missions and community outreach projects.
In-Person Giving
We warmly welcome tithes and offerings during all in-person meetings. Dedicated envelopes are available in the sanctuary for your contributions.
Thank you for partnering with us in building God’s kingdom.
Connect With Us
Email:
welcome@iccrccg.org