Subtitle: The pastor said it was time to take up an off-her-ring.
Excerpt: Churches should handle tithes and offerings worshipfully, voluntarily, faithfully, and accountably, emphasizing planning, honesty, and transparency to glorify God.
Theology on the Lighter Side – How does your church handle tithes and offerings?
Churches use many different ways to collect tithes and offerings. They often mix old and new methods so that people can give regularly and easily based on their own preferences.
From a Biblical Christian point of view, the way churches ask for tithes and offerings is more about what they mean than the mechanics of it. Giving is a way to show God that you are responsible, thankful, and supportive of your local church (Malachi 3:10). The Bible stresses the heart, purpose, and honesty behind giving.
- Giving During Corporate Worship: The Bible says that offerings and gathered worship go hand in hand. In the Old Testament, people brought gifts to the temple or tabernacle (Deuteronomy 16:16–17). Teachings from the New Testament suggest people typically gave when they were together (1 Corinthians 16:1–2).
- Giving in a way that is planned and thoughtful: The Bible says that you should plan when you give, not just do it on a whim. “Each person must give what he has decided in his heart” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
- Not forced, but voluntary: God loves a giver who is happy to give, not one who is forced to give (2 Corinthians 9:7). Jesus told people not to give if they weren’t really devoted (Matthew 6:1–4).
- Help with ministry and taking care of others: Offerings supported by Scripture – Teachers and pastors (1 Timothy 5:17–18) – The poor and needy (Acts 4:34–35) – Mission work (Philippians 4:15–16). Today’s practical expression: general funds, gifts for the poor, gifts for missions, and special collections for certain needs.
- Being honest and responsible: Being a good steward of tithes and offerings received means being transparent in the use of funds gathered. Paul said that it was important to take care of gifts to honor the Lord and use them wisely (2 Corinthians 8:20–21).
Conclusion
The Bible provides only general guidelines on how to collect tithes and offerings. From a Biblical Christian standpoint, churches may utilize various practical approaches that work for their specific congregations. Nevertheless, giving must invariably be worshipful, voluntary, faithful, and accountable, ultimately executed “for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words
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