Biblical Answer

The Right Attitude Towards Giving

When it comes to giving to the church, we must not view it as a means to purchase God's favor or blessings. This is a misguided understanding of the relationship between God and His people. The Bible teaches us that God's grace is not for sale, and our giving should be motivated by a heart of generosity, not a desire for personal gain. As the apostle Paul wrote, "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). Our giving should be a reflection of our love for God and our desire to serve Him, not a means to manipulate Him into blessing us.

The Biblical Principle of Giving

The Bible teaches that giving is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, and it is not limited to financial giving. In 1 Corinthians 12-14, the apostle Paul outlines various gifts that believers can use to build up the church, including prophecy, serving, teaching, and giving. Each of these gifts is essential to the health and growth of the church, and they should be used in a way that is consistent with the gifts and interests that God has given to each individual. When it comes to financial giving, the Bible teaches that we should give generously and sacrificially, not just out of obligation, but out of a desire to honor God and support the work of the church.

Determining the Right Amount to Give

So, how much should we give to the church? The answer is not a simple one, as it depends on various factors, including our income, expenses, and spiritual gifts. The Bible teaches that we should give cheerfully and generously, without regard to what others are giving. As the apostle Paul wrote, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give" (2 Corinthians 9:7). This means that we should not compare ourselves to others or try to give a certain amount based on what we think others are giving. Instead, we should give according to what God has given us, and trust Him to provide for our needs. Ultimately, the right amount to give is not a question of how much, but a question of whether we are giving with a cheerful and generous heart.