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(Introduction portion of Chapter 9 only)
9
Grace Giving
Many Christians are taught to give monetary tithes and to give money ‘above and beyond’ their monetary tithe (monetary offering) in order to become true givers. This is a clear example of what happens when Christians call their church contributions something other than “grace giving.” The rules and regulations under the old covenant have nothing to do with free persons in Christ pleasing God.
In addition to individual priorities, the priorities of the church need to change. Giving to the community should be first and foremost, as opposed to being a last minute thought after all else has been accomplished. Then, and only then will the image of the church resemble even more ‘the household of God.’
Christians should come to the same conclusion as the teacher of the law in Mark 12:33: “To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” Only then can Christians, within their freedom, perform corporate level giving that supports the life work of the church in accordance with the will of God.
This chapter brings into focus how, why, and when Christians are to give under the new covenant as Spirit led believers. This way of giving is called grace giving or true Christian giving. It provides the correct procedures for giving, showing that generous giving to the church, and to one another, should be exercised within a person’s freedom and responsibility. More specifically, this chapter explains the following:
1. The power of grace;
2. Christians reap what they sow;
3. Christians meet the needs of the poor according to their ability;
4. Christians give cheerfully, and in so doing, this will please God;
5. Instructions for the wealthy;
6. How to support instructors of the word; and
7. Christian responsibility.
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