As with all things in the life of the Christian, the practice of Christian giving and generosity should be in line with what the Scriptures reveal on the topic. To that end, we would direct you to meditate on four specific passages from the New Testament as you consider your giving: Matthew 6:1-4, 1 Corinthians 16:1-2, 2 Corinthians 8:9-15 and 9:6-7.
A survey of these particular passages will reveal the basic principles we follow for Christian giving, summarized here:
For All Christians
The Bible says giving is an expectation of every believer. Jesus said, “when you give,” not “if you give.” (Matt 6:2)
In accordance with our means
Our giving is to be in line with the means of an individual or family. (2 Corinthians 8:12, 1 Corinthians 16:2)
Cheerfully
Giving is to be done cheerfully and willingly, not grudgingly or under compulsion. (2 Corinthians 9:7)
Sacrificially
Followers of Jesus should practice sacrificial giving, noting that sacrifice looks very different for different households. God is not honoured by the amount, but by the sacrifice.
As an act of worship
The Bible teaches that our giving should be an act of worship, not for the end of being admired by others, but with the motivation to glorify God and serve his people and mission. (Matt 6:1, 1 Corinthians 16:2)
As a response to grace
The generosity we practice in our lives is simply done as a worshipful response to that which has been done for us. Giving as a generous, worshipful response is tied to the generosity of God in the way he has given the mostly costly gift. (2 Corinthians 8:9)