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Biblical Giving: A Heart Issue

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Most of the time, I do not write or speak much about giving, nor do I emphasise it in church gatherings. However, as I prayed, the Holy Spirit made it clear to me how important it is to teach the truth about giving from God’s Word, particularly from the perspective of the New Covenant.

When it comes to giving to the church, there is a great deal of confusion. Many Christians either give out of a sense of obligation, expecting blessings in return, or refrain from giving altogether due to doubts and past disappointments.

For some, the Old Testament teachings on tithes and firstfruits have been overwhelming, while for others, the misuse of church funds has caused concern. However, the New Testament presents a different view—one that is based on faith, love, and generosity rather than duty.

The purpose of this teaching is not to pressure anyone into giving but to explain how biblical giving under grace truly works. My desire is that you experience freedom from guilt and manipulation when you give, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you in generosity as an act of thanksgiving. Through this, may we all grow in our trust in God, knowing that He is our provider and that our giving reflects our love and devotion to Him.

May the truth of Scripture bring clarity and freedom as we explore this important subject together.

Tithing in the Old Testament #

Tithing, which means giving a tenth (10%), was a command given to the Israelites under the Mosaic Law. It served as a means of supporting the Levitical priesthood, funding temple services, and providing for the poor in Israel.

Key Aspects of Old Testament Tithing #

Tithing was given in agricultural produce. The Israelites were commanded to give a tenth of their crops, flocks, and herds, not money.

Leviticus 27:30-32 — “‘Any tithe of the land, from the grain of the land or from the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD. If a man redeems part of his tithe, however, he must add one fifth to it. All the tithe of herd or flock, everything which passes under the rod, the tenth one will be holy to the LORD.

There were multiple tithes amounting to about 23.3% per year, including:

  • The Levitical tithe (Numbers 18:21-24) to support the priests.
  • The Festival tithe (Deuteronomy 14:22-27) for feasts and celebrations.
  • The Poor Tithe (Deuteronomy 14:28-29) is given every third year to aid the needy.

Tithing was part of the Old Covenant system and was linked to the temple in Jerusalem.

The tithe was inseparable from the temple worship and the Levitical priesthood. Since the temple no longer stands and we are under the New Covenant, the practice of tithing as a legal requirement no longer applies.

Total Annual Tithes #

  • In two out of three years, the Israelites gave 20% (Levitical + Festival Tithes).
  • Every third year, they gave an extra 10%, making it 30% that year.
  • On average, this amounted to about 23.3% per year.

When Malachi 3:8-10 says,

Malachi 3:8-10 — Can a person rob God? You indeed are robbing me, but you say, ‘How are we robbing you?’ In tithes and contributions! You are bound for judgment because you are robbing me – this whole nation is guilty. “Bring the entire tithe into the storehouse so that there may be food in my temple. Test me in this matter,” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, “to see if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out blessing for you until there is no room for it all.

It addresses Israel’s failure to obey the Old Covenant law. This passage does not apply to New Testament believers because we are no longer under the Law.

Galatians 3:24-25 — Thus the law had become our guardian until Christ, so that we could be declared righteous by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.

Jesus and Tithing #

Jesus mentioned tithing when rebuking the Pharisees,

Matthew 23:23 — “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cumin and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.”

What Does This Mean?

  • Jesus was speaking to Jews still under the Law.
  • He affirmed that tithing was part of their legal obligation.
  • However, He pointed out that righteousness is not about external religious acts but about inner transformation.
  • His death and resurrection later fulfilled the Law (Matthew 5:17; Hebrews 8:13).

The Shift from Tithing to Generous Giving #

Paul’s instruction;

2 Corinthians 9:7 — “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

This places the responsibility on the believer’s heart, rather than on an external mandate like the tithe in the Old Testament.

In the Old Covenant, the tithe was a set requirement (Malachi 3:10), but in the New Covenant, giving became an act of faith, love, and personal conviction. This shift exposed the true condition of a believer’s heart—whether they would give generously out of gratitude for the gospel or use their newfound freedom as an excuse to give little or nothing.

Paul’s emphasis was not on legalism but on cheerful and willing giving (2 Corinthians 9:6–8). The focus was on supporting gospel work and caring for others, reflecting the grace that believers had received. It was no longer about obligation but about love for God and His mission.

Criticism of Giving and the Role of Ministers #

Many today criticise pastors, saying they are either beggars for asking or thieves for collecting tithes and offerings. However, Scripture makes it clear that supporting the gospel and those who labour in it is a biblical principle.

Jesus Taught That Gospel Workers Deserve Support

When Jesus sent out His disciples, He instructed them not to carry provisions but to rely on the support of those they ministered to.

Luke 10:7 — “Stay in that same house, eating and drinking what they give you, for the worker deserves his pay.

Jesus teaches that those who labour for the gospel have a right to be supported by those they serve. Just as workers in any field deserve wages, those who dedicate themselves to preaching and teaching should not be left in need.

Paul Reinforced This Principle in the New Covenant

The apostle Paul made it clear that those who minister the gospel have the right to receive financial support.

1 Corinthians 9:13-14 – “Don’t you know that those who serve in the temple eat food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar receive a part of the offerings? In the same way the Lord commanded those who proclaim the gospel to receive their living by the gospel.”

Paul used the example of the Old Testament priests, who were provided for through tithes and offerings, to show that those who minister under the New Covenant should also be supported.

However, Paul himself sometimes chose not to make use of this right, working as a tentmaker to avoid being a burden on the churches. But he made it clear that this was his personal choice and not a rule for all ministers.

1 Corinthians 9:11-12 – “If we sowed spiritual blessings among you, is it too much to reap material things from you? If others receive this right from you, do we not more? But we have not made use of this right. Instead we endure everything so that we may not be a hindrance to the gospel of Christ.”

When a Pastor Works in a Job or Business? #

Some hesitate to give when they see a pastor running a business or working a job. They think, “He already has income; why should I support him?” But the issue is not whether a pastor chooses to take support—it’s whether people choose to give.

Paul chose not to take, but that didn’t mean people were free to choose not to give.

1 Corinthians 9:12 — If others receive this right from you, are we not more deserving? But we have not made use of this right. Instead we endure everything so that we may not be a hindrance to the gospel of Christ.

Other times, Paul did ask for financial support.

Philippians 4:16-17 — For even in Thessalonica on more than one occasion you sent something for my need. I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account.

Each minister makes their own decision about receiving support, but that doesn’t remove the believer’s responsibility to give.

If you can’t support the one who is blessing you, praying for you, and labouring for the gospel, it reveals that you haven’t yet experienced the Father’s heart of generosity.

Giving isn’t just about finances—it’s a reflection of honour, gratitude, and spiritual maturity.

Giving Displays Your Heart #

Jesus said,

Matthew 6:21 — “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

The way we handle giving—especially toward those who labour in the gospel—exposes our true priorities, values, and level of spiritual maturity.

If a person is quick to criticize pastors for receiving support but slow to give, it reveals more about their own heart than about the pastor’s actions.

Some justify their lack of giving by saying, “Pastors are beggars,” or “They already have enough.” But the issue isn’t whether the pastor needs or doesn’t need—it’s whether you have a heart of generosity.

The Balance Between Supporting the Gospel and Helping Others #

Some say, “We will help our neighbours and those in need first,” and while helping the needy is biblical, that doesn’t mean we should neglect to support the gospel or the preacher through whom we learn and are blessed.

Scripture commands us to help the poor and the needy.

Proverbs 19:17 — The one who is gracious to the poor lends to the LORD, and the LORD will repay him for his good deed.

Matthew 25:35-40 — For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the king will answer them, ‘I tell you the truth, just as you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of mine, you did it for me.’

But it also commands us to support those who labour in the gospel. Paul makes this clear,

Galatians 6:6 — “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.”

There is no contradiction between helping the needy and supporting the gospel—both are necessary.

Matthew 26:11 — “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.” He was not dismissing the poor but emphasizing the priority of honouring God’s work.

The Excuse of Judging the Preacher’s Intentions #

The moment a man of God teaches on giving—even after a long time—many people immediately judge his heart, saying, “Now he has begun asking for his personal gain.” They assume he is preaching about giving because he wants money for himself.

However, if a preacher asks for his gain, the Lord is his judge (1 Corinthians 4:5), and God will deal with him accordingly. But this should not be used as an excuse to withhold support from the gospel.

Some people attack giving just to avoid the responsibility of supporting the work of God. Paul himself addressed financial giving multiple times, teaching believers to give cheerfully, regularly, and generously.

1 Corinthians 16:2 — On the first day of the week, each of you should set aside some income and save it to the extent that God has blessed you, so that a collection will not have to be made when I come.

Philippians 4:15-17 — And as you Philippians know, at the beginning of my gospel ministry, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in this matter of giving and receiving except you alone. For even in Thessalonica on more than one occasion you sent something for my need. I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account.

The Responsibility of the Believer’s Heart #

A believer’s heart should be focused on supporting those who pour into them spiritually. The Bible doesn’t say, “Give only if the preacher asks.” It says to give out of love, honour, and gratitude.

  • If you are blessed by a minister’s teachings, support them.
  • If you are growing in your faith because of their labour, invest in them.
  • If you see them pouring their life into the gospel, honour them through giving.

Giving in the New Covenant: Doing More, Not Less #

Since you do not take tithes and do not receive money from the church, some might assume that giving is no longer necessary. However, this is far from the truth. In the New Covenant, believers are called to give even more generously—not out of obligation, but out of love, faith, and a heart for the gospel.

Under the Old Covenant, the tithe was a fixed 10%, given as a duty. But in the New Covenant, giving is no longer limited by a percentage—it is based on generosity, gratitude, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Paul teaches,

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 — “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

This means believers should give more freely and abundantly than what was required under the Old Covenant. Instead of asking, “How much do I have to give?” the New Covenant believer should ask, “How much can I give to honour God and advance His kingdom?”

A Challenge for Believers #

If a man of God doesn’t take financial support, then believers should ask themselves:

  • Am I using this as an excuse to give less, or am I giving even more?
  • Am I supporting other gospel ministers, missionaries, or those in need?
  • Am I sowing generously into God’s work, knowing that He provides abundantly?

The New Covenant does not cancel giving—it calls for even greater generosity. It’s not about a set percentage; it’s about a heart that overflows with gratitude and love for God.

Giving is a reflection of our faith and our priorities. When we truly understand God’s love and provision, giving becomes a joy, not a burden.

What If the Man of God Misuses the Funds for a Lavish Lifestyle? #

A common concern among believers is: “What if the man of God misuses the funds? What if he lives a lavish lifestyle instead of using the money for ministry and the needs of the church?”

This is a valid question, and scripture guides it.

Only Pastors Are Getting Rich – Misuse of Church Funds
Some pastors indeed misuse church funds for personal luxuries rather than the ministry’s mission. This creates distrust and makes people hesitant to give.

    Real Example: In 2019, a well-known pastor was exposed for using church funds to buy designer clothes and luxury vacations. This scandal caused many believers to stop giving altogether. (Read more)

    1 Peter 5:2-3 – “Give a shepherd’s care to God’s flock among you, exercising oversight not merely as a duty but willingly under God’s direction, not for shameful profit but eagerly. And do not lord it over those entrusted to you, but be examples to the flock.”

    This verse instructs church leaders to serve with integrity, avoiding greed and the misuse of church funds for personal gain.

    God Holds Leaders Accountable #

    While believers are responsible for giving with the right heart, leaders are responsible for handling finances with integrity. The Bible warns against greed and dishonesty in ministry:

    1 Timothy 6:9-10 – “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.”

    Titus 1:7 – “For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain.”

    If a leader misuses funds for personal luxury while neglecting the needs of the ministry, the church, and the poor, he is accountable to God and will face consequences. However, this should not become an excuse for believers to stop giving altogether.

    • Giving is About Obedience to God, Not Just Trust in Man
    • When you give, you are giving to God’s work, not just to a man.
    • If a preacher misuses funds, God will judge him, but your giving is between you and God.

    Romans 14:12 — “So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”

    1 Corinthians 4:5 — “Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God.”

    Discernment in Giving #

    While giving is an act of faith, it does not mean believers should give blindly. Paul commended the Bereans in Acts 17:11 for examining everything in light of scripture. If a leader is consistently displaying greed, manipulation, or extravagance at the expense of the ministry, believers should:

    • Pray for wisdom – Seek God’s guidance on where and how to give.
    • Be led by the Holy Spirit – Give as the Spirit leads, ensuring your giving aligns with scripture.
    • Support true gospel work – Invest in ministries and individuals who demonstrate faithfulness, integrity, and a heart for the kingdom.
    • Hold leadership accountable – In cases of clear misuse, the church community should address concerns through proper channels, following biblical principles. (Matthew 18:15-17).
    • Look for Transparency: A trustworthy ministry will openly share financial reports and how donations are used.
    • Check the Ministry’s Focus: Does the money go towards spreading the gospel, helping the poor, and supporting the church? Or is it spent on personal luxuries?

    Don’t Use Misuse as an Excuse Not to Give #

    If Abuse is Regular, Should We Keep Giving?
    No, if a ministry repeatedly misuses funds and shows no accountability, believers should redirect their giving to ministries that truly serve God’s purpose. There are many genuine pastors, missionaries, and churches that need support.

    Some use reports of financial abuse as a reason to stop giving altogether. However, just because some misuse funds does not mean all ministers do. Many faithful servants of God live humbly and use finances responsibly for gospel work.

    If giving stops completely due to distrust, the work of the gospel can suffer. Instead of withholding giving, believers should:

    • Give wisely to ministries that demonstrate integrity.
    • Support preachers who labour faithfully in teaching and shepherding.
    • Remember that God sees the heart – both the giver and the receiver.

    At the end of the day, giving is an act of gratitude, and God rewards those who give cheerfully and faithfully.

    2 Corinthians 9:6-7 — My point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. Each one of you should give just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, because God loves a cheerful giver.

    If a leader is unfaithful, God will deal with him, but believers must remain faithful in their generosity and stewardship.

    Neglecting the Needs of the Ministry #

    Many ministers share their vision with their congregations—whether it’s getting books printed, organizing a gospel meeting, supporting missions, or expanding the ministry. Yet, even when people have the means to help, they choose not to give. They remain silent, taking it for granted that “God will provide.”

    But how will God provide? Is it not through His people? Are you not part of the fellowship? Are you not being fed spiritually? Shouldn’t you rejoice that you are being blessed by the labour of the man of God?

    This attitude of detachment is common. Many believers think, “If it’s God’s work, He will make a way,” but they fail to see that God’s way of providing is through the willing hearts of His people.

    Biblical Examples: God’s Provision Through People #

    Jesus’ Ministry Was Supported by People
    Luke 8:2-3 tells us that women like Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna “provided for Him out of their means.” Even Jesus, though fully divine, allowed people to participate in the work by supporting His earthly ministry.

    Luke 8:2-3 — and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and disabilities: Mary (called Magdalene), from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna the wife of Cuza (Herod’s household manager), Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their own resources.

    The Early Church Provided for the Apostles
    In Acts 4:34-35, believers sold their possessions and brought the proceeds to the apostles, ensuring that no one in the church lacked anything. They understood that supporting God’s work was their responsibility, not something to leave to “divine intervention.”

    Acts 4:34-35 — For there was no one needy among them, because those who were owners of land or houses were selling them and bringing the proceeds from the sales and placing them at the apostles’ feet. The proceeds were distributed to each, as anyone had need.

    Paul Acknowledged Support from Churches
    Paul thanked the Philippians for their generosity: “Even in Thessalonica, you sent me help for my needs once and again.” (Philippians 4:16) They didn’t assume someone else would give—they took action.

    Life Examples: The Reality of Ministry Needs #

    A Pastor’s Vision for a Gospel Crusade
    A minister plans a crusade that will bring many souls to Christ. He shares the vision with his congregation, explaining the need for funds to rent a venue, arrange sound systems, and print materials. Some members have the financial means, but they say nothing.

    They assume, “If it’s God’s will, He will provide.” Meanwhile, the pastor struggles to make ends meet, sometimes even using his savings to carry out the work.

    A Minister Wants to Print Books for Teaching
    A preacher writes a book filled with revelations that will help believers grow in their faith. He announces it to the church, hoping for support.

    Yet, many ignore it, thinking, “If it’s God’s plan, someone else will help.” But why should it be someone else? The people receiving spiritual nourishment from his teachings are the very ones who should be eager to contribute.

    A Missionary Needs Travel Expenses
    A missionary is invited to minister in another country but lacks the funds for airfare. He shares the need, but people dismiss it with, “God will open a door.”

    Yes, God opens doors—but it is through believers who are willing to be used as His hands and feet.

    A Test of the Heart: Why Do People Hold Back? #

    There are many reasons why people do not give when they should:

    • Indifference – They enjoy the ministry’s benefits but don’t feel responsible for its growth.
    • Fear of Lack – They hesitate to give, thinking they might not have enough for themselves.
    • Assumption – They assume someone else will step in, so they don’t have to.
    • Lack of Revelation – They don’t see giving as an act of being grateful and of faith.

    Paul said,

    2 Corinthians 9:10 — “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.”

    Why Do People Hesitate to Give? #

    “Why Give to God? Does God Need Our Money?”

    This is a common question. The truth is, God does not need our money—He is the Creator and owns everything (Psalm 50:10-12). However, giving is not for God’s benefit but for ours. It teaches us obedience, faith, and stewardship.

    “My Friend is Already Rich and Doesn’t Give—He Doesn’t Need God to Bless Him”

    Many compare themselves to others when it comes to giving. But giving isn’t about financial return—it’s about obedience, personal faith, and recognizing God’s role in our lives.

    Giving is a deeply personal matter between us and God. The focus should not be on what others do or don’t do but on our own heart and faithfulness.

    What Should a Believer Do? #

    Instead of waiting for “someone else” to give, every believer should ask:

    • “How can I be a part of this work?”
    • “What can I contribute to further the gospel?”
    • “Am I truly grateful for the spiritual food I receive?”

    When God puts a vision in a minister’s heart, He also places the provision in the hands of believers. If those who are blessed by the ministry fail to give, they are withholding what God has given them for His purpose.

    Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:6, “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.” If you are being fed spiritually, it is your privilege and responsibility to support the work of the one who labours in the Word.

    Supporting Only Big Ministries: A Misguided Idea of Growth #

    Some believers are eager to support large ministries, thinking that by doing so, they are “helping God’s work increase.” They assume that because a church or ministry is big, it must be where God is working the most.

    While it is not wrong to support a well-established ministry, this mindset often leads to neglecting smaller, local, or less popular ministries that are faithfully serving the Lord.

    Jesus did not call us to support only what is already successful in human eyes; He called us to be faithful stewards wherever God places us.

    Biblical Perspective: God Does Not Favor Size, But Faithfulness #

    God Uses Small Things for His Glory
    In Zechariah 4:10, God warns against despising small beginnings:
    “For who has despised the day of small things?” The work of God does not start with large crowds or massive buildings—it starts with faithful servants who obey His call, even in small ways.

    The Widow’s Offering vs. The Rich
    In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus praised a poor widow who gave two small coins, saying she gave more than the rich who contributed large amounts. The issue was not the size of the offering but the heart behind it.

    Paul’s Ministry Was Not Always Well-Funded
    In 2 Corinthians 11:8-9, Paul said, “I robbed other churches by accepting support from them to serve you.” The wealthier churches neglected him, while smaller ones sacrificially helped.

    Life Examples: The Reality of Misplaced Giving #

    A Local Pastor Struggles While a Mega Church Receives Millions
    A small-town pastor faithfully preaches the Word, visiting homes, counselling families, and shepherding a flock that is spiritually growing. However, many members send their financial support to a well-known international ministry instead of their local church. They assume the bigger ministry is doing “more for God,” but they ignore the needs of the very place where they are being spiritually fed.

    An Evangelist’s Gospel Meetings Are Overlooked
    A passionate evangelist holds small but impactful gospel meetings in rural areas, reaching people who have never heard the gospel. Yet, many believers would rather donate to a famous TV preacher, assuming that a larger audience equals greater effectiveness. Meanwhile, this evangelist struggles to cover travel expenses.

    A Missionary on the Field is Forgotten
    A missionary serves in an underprivileged village, discipling people in the faith, but few believers support him. They believe their donations are better spent on large conferences or megachurch programs. The missionary has to work a side job to sustain himself while doing the Lord’s work.

    Why Do Some Only Support Big Ministries? #

    • Visibility and Influence – Large ministries have a public presence, making them seem more “successful.”
    • Emotional Appeal – High-production fundraising campaigns from big ministries often persuade people to give.
    • Assumption of Impact – People assume that the bigger the ministry, the more effective it is, though that’s not always true.
    • Lack of Personal Connection – Some prefer giving to well-known figures rather than to local ministries where they can see real impact.

    The Right Approach: Give Where God Leads You #

    Instead of following a popularity-driven mindset, believers should:

    • Support where they are being spiritually fed. (Galatians 6:6).
    • Discern where God is truly working, not just where numbers are high.
    • Recognize the value of small, faithful ministries that need resources.

    Giving should not be based on fame or size but on faithfulness and fruitfulness. Do not overlook the smaller works of God simply because they are not on TV or in stadiums.

    Do House Churches and Their Pastors Have Needs? #

    Some people assume that house churches and their pastors do not have financial needs because they meet in homes instead of large buildings. However, this is a misunderstanding.

    House churches still require financial support for various reasons:

    Pastors and Leaders Still Need Support

    Just like in larger churches, house church pastors dedicate time to teaching, guiding, and caring for their congregation. Paul taught that those who preach the gospel should be supported by the church:
    1 Corinthians 9:14 – “In the same way the Lord commanded those who proclaim the gospel to receive their living by the gospel.”

    Many house church pastors work secular jobs while serving the church, but they still have needs. If they are giving their time to shepherd the church, the church should care for them.

    House Churches Still Have Expenses

    Even though they do not have large buildings, house churches still have financial needs, such as:

    • Helping struggling members (widows, orphans, or those in financial crisis).

    • Mission work (supporting evangelists, missionaries or their travels for ministry work).

    • Resources (Bibles, teaching materials, online ministry costs).

    • Legal needs (in some countries, churches need funds to register legally or protect members from persecution).
    In the early church, believers shared their resources to support one another:

    Acts 2:44-45 – “All who believed were together and held everything in common, and they began selling their property and possessions and distributing the proceeds to everyone, as anyone had need.”

    Giving is About the Heart, Not the Church Size

    Some people assume that small or underground churches do not require financial help. However, giving is not just about meeting needs—it is an act of obedience, worship, and trust in God.

    Even if a house church does not have visible expenses, giving supports the work of the gospel and shows love for the body of Christ.

    2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each one of you should give just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, because God loves a cheerful giver.”

    The Blessing of Supporting God’s Ministry #

    Giving Demonstrates Faith and Trust in God
    Paul said, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” (2 Corinthians 9:6).

      Example: A farmer who keeps all his seeds will never see a harvest. Likewise, when we invest in God’s work, we open doors for His blessings.

      God Supplies to Givers

      Philippians 4:19 — “And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

      Giving Strengthens the Local Church
      When believers invest in their own church or ministry, they empower the work of the gospel in their community.

        Example: In China’s underground church movement, believers secretly pool resources to print Bibles, support pastors, and care for persecuted members. (Read more)

        Encouragement to the Congregation #

        • Giving is not about money, but about your heart.
        • Give from a willing heart, not under pressure.
        • Recognize that giving is part of spiritual maturity.
        • Invest in the ministry that feeds you spiritually.

        Use discernment and support ministries with integrity.

        Conclusion & Call to Action #

        • Reflect on your attitude toward giving.
        • Don’t let past hurts block generosity—seek ministries with integrity.
        • Support both the global church and your local church.
        • Give wisely—look for ministries that are faithful stewards of God’s resources.

        In Christ,

        Godwin.

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        Blessings to you.