Finding the Right Balance: How Much Should Christians Give?

Learn how much Christians should give based on biblical principles. Discover the significance of regular, proportional, and generous giving.

How Much Should Christians Give? A Biblical Perspective

As Christians, we are called to be generous and giving. The apostle Paul frequently taught the early church about giving, and Jesus Himself taught His disciples the importance of giving. But how much should Christians give? Is there a specific percentage that we should give?

Understanding Tithing in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, the concept of tithing was established as a requirement for the people of Israel to give one-tenth of their income to the Lord. The word "tithe" literally means "tenth." This practice was a way for the Israelites to provide for the needs of the priests and Levites, as well as support the work of the temple and the welfare of the community.

However, in the New Testament, there is no specific commandment for believers to tithe. Instead, the New Testament presents principles and guidelines to help us determine how much to give.

The Principles of Giving in the New Testament

The first principle of giving in the New Testament is to give regularly. In his letters to the churches in Corinth and Galatia, Paul instructs believers to give on a regular basis, whether it be weekly or monthly (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Giving should be a regular part of our corporate worship, and it is easier to give smaller amounts more frequently than a large sum all at once. Additionally, the church has ongoing needs and financial obligations that require steady support.

The second principle is to give in proportion to our income. Paul teaches that we should give in keeping with how much we have prospered and according to our means or ability (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8:2-3). If we have been blessed with significant prosperity, we ought to give a more substantial amount. On the other hand, if we have not been as prosperous, a smaller gift is still acceptable. The key is to give in proportion to what we have.

Another principle of giving in the New Testament is to give generously. Paul encourages believers to give with a spirit of generosity, even sacrificially at times, but not to the point of personal deprivation (Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians 8:2-3, 8; Romans 12:1; Philippians 4:17-18). Our giving should be deliberate, meeting genuine needs, and coming from a joyful heart. We are not to give out of guilt or compulsion, but out of our own free choice. When we see a fellow believer in need, especially those who are ministering in the gospel, we should strive to meet that need if we are able (1 Corinthians 9:14; 2 Corinthians 8:12-14; Galatians 6:6).

Love is another motivation for giving. In 2 Corinthians 8:8-9, Paul reminds us that just as Jesus Christ gave Himself for us, we ought to give of ourselves for others. Our giving should flow from a heart filled with love and compassion. Furthermore, God promises to reward and bless us when we give (2 Corinthians 9:6; Luke 6:38). Giving is an act of faith, and God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Seeking God's Will in Giving

Ultimately, the decision of how much to give should be a matter of prayer and seeking God's will. As we cultivate a consistent relationship with Him, we will begin to understand His heart and His desires for our giving. It may be that we are led to give a traditional tithe, or it may be a different percentage or amount. The important thing is that our giving is done with a willing and obedient heart.

When we consider all that Jesus Christ has done for us, we are filled with gratitude and a sense of indebtedness. Everything we have and everything we give already belongs to God. We are merely stewards of His resources. Giving is an act of worship and surrender, offering ourselves humbly and wholly to God.

Financial giving is not just a means for raising money; it is a way for God to develop our character and faith. It teaches us to trust in Him and rely on His provision. Just as a child learns to share their toys with others, we learn to share our resources with those in need. It is through our giving that God matures our faith and deepens our dependence on Him.

Conclusion

While the New Testament does not specifically command a tithe, it does provide us with principles to guide our giving. These principles include giving regularly, in proportion to our income, generously and sacrificially, out of love for others, and with a heart of gratitude and obedience to God. The specific amount or percentage we give may vary, but the key is to give with a willing and joyful heart, seeking God's will in all things.

As we give, let us remember that our giving is not just a financial transaction, but an act of worship and surrender. It is an opportunity for us to show our love for God and our love for others. Let us give generously, knowing that God will bless and reward us as we faithfully steward His resources.