Understanding Offerings in the Church of God

Following the pattern established in Scripture, we set aside time for giving when the church gathers. This allows each person to participate in supporting our shared needs as a regular practice of worship and community, as the Church of God has been doing before: "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income" (1 Corinthians 16:2). This practice emphasizes regularity and intentionality in our giving.

The Scriptures teach that giving is a personal decision made before God. As Paul wrote, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). The amount is between you and God, given cheerfully as you are able. Giving should be "according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have" (2 Corinthians 8:12).

We recognize that understanding different biblical teachings on giving can be challenging. In the church, we follow the example of the Church of God in the Scriptures which emphasizes voluntary, cheerful offerings rather than mandatory tithes. The focus is on grace-motivated giving, as described in 2 Corinthians 8-9, where giving flows from the heart rather than legal obligation.

The example in the Church of God emphasizes voluntary giving based on one's means and heartfelt decision (2 Corinthians 8:3, 12; 9:7). We approach this topic with humility, respecting that believers may have different understandings as we all seek to grow in our knowledge of God's Word.

Your presence and participation in the body of Christ are valued regardless of financial contribution. There are many ways to serve and support the family of faith through time, service, and fellowship. The Scriptures teach that each member has different gifts and contributions to make (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). Your value to the body of Christ is not measured by financial contribution.

Offerings are managed by a responsible Administration Team with transparency and integrity. The Scriptures instruct us to manage resources wisely: "For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of others" (2 Corinthians 8:21). Additionally, the principle of accountability is emphasized: "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2).

Absolutely. Your giving is a matter between you and God. Those handling the offerings do so with discretion, and individual giving amounts are not disclosed or discussed. This honors the principle that "your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you" (Matthew 6:4). The focus remains on the heart attitude rather than the visible amount.

Giving is a spiritual discipline that reflects our trust in God and our gratitude for His provision. It expresses our understanding that everything we have comes from Him (1 Chronicles 29:14). The Apostle Paul described giving as an act of grace that produces thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:11-12). Jesus Himself taught that "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). Through giving, we participate in God's work and cultivate a generous heart.