How should I give?
• Give what you’ve cheerfully decided in your heart to give 2 Cor 9:7• Give generously Ps 37:21, Prov 11:25, 2 Cor 9:6, 1 Tim 6:17-19
• Give in a manner worthy of the gospel Phil 1:27
• Give regularly according to income 1 Cor 16:2, Prov 3:9-10
• Tithing (10%)? The tithe existed before the law (Gen 14:20, Heb 7:2, Gen 28:20-22), was a part of the law (Lev 27:30, Deut 14:22, Mal 3:10), and seems to exist after the law was fulfilled in Christ in order to support gospel preaching (1 Cor 9:13-14). Although we are no longer under the ceremonial law (Rom 6:14, Gal 5:18), a strong case can be made to continue to tithe and even to exceed the tithe as a cheerful response to God’s grace.
Why give?
• To obey God• Giving causes people to glorify God 2 Cor 9:12-15
• God love’s a cheerful giver 2 Cor 9:7
• There’s more pleasure in giving than receiving Acts 20:35
• You reap what you sow 2 Cor 9:6-11
Why is regular giving the fruit of partnership?
• God wants people’s hearts – and where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matt 6:21Where does the money go?
• Basic expenses supporting the church’s mission (outreach, building, equipment, coffee, meals, etc.)• Honoring apostles and/or elders so they have more time to serve the church (1 Tim 5:17-18, 1 Cor 9:8-14)
• Needy saints (Rom 12:13, 1 Cor 16:1-2, 2 Cor 8:3-4, Eph 4:28, Acts 4:34-35)
• The Poor (Rom 15:26, Prov 14:21, 19:17, 21:13, 28:27, 1 Tim 5:3-16, James 1:27)