You may have heard some troubling things said (and done) regarding financial offerings. But “the church” (preachers, televangelists, name your favorite target) is not corrupt. Neither are the vast majority of people in these positions.
We know it would be wrong to use the manipulation of a very few as an excuse to ignore our unresolved questions about giving. Remember, we’re looking for personal clarity from scripture about something we desire to do.
Questions, Questions
We all want to give. We all like to receive gifts.
Here’s a sampling of the questions we hear about giving:
- What’s the “right” amount?
- Does the tithe still apply today?
- Is the first ten percent required, with everything else a freewill offering?
- What should be our motivation?
- Isn’t giving all about the heart anyway?
Sometimes the lack of talk about giving is the problem.
Put yourself in your pastor’s shoes for a minute. Can you imagine bringing up the subject of money from the pulpit? The best-intentioned leader (you’re the pastor, remember?) would struggle with the challenge of teaching on this topic without appearing to have a conflict of interest.
The congregation expects the lights to work and the building to be clean. Just imagine wrestling with the need for expanded facilities or staff while faithfully supporting projects for missions and the poor!
Is it any wonder pastors are tempted to avoid deep discussion of the subject?
Churches and faith-based charities have a God-given passion for their particular cause. Bold appeals for monetary support are expected—and scriptural.
Let's give our pastors and ministry leaders a break and consider that the disconnect about giving could be caused by our lack of clear, biblical perspective.
What do you think? Have we been too hard on our leaders?
