An Analysis of Giving Within the Church

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training, but instead they are spiritual visionaries and entrepreneurs. Furthermore, these megachurches account for 200 staff members on average, 20 assistant pastors and minsters, 2000 volunteers, and at least $2 million annual budgets. With these kind of numbers, it is no wonder that these church leaders see the need to impose the theology of tithing 10 percent of one’s income upon their congregations. However, churches don’t require their members to give only of their money, but of their time as well. Due to the many activities that churches put on in order to satisfy the spiritual hunger and interests of their members, they require the services of a high volume of volunteers. Therefore, church goers regularly hear from their pastors that Christianity isn’t just a Sunday religion, but a seven days a week activity that involves them volunteering at church functions and looking out for opportunities that may benefit the church when they are out in the “field.” In addition, some members would gladly give a high amount of their resources, such as time and money, if it means they can gain some influence and respect within the church. Just as a large law firm would try their hardest to keep and accommodate their richest client, some churches would accommodate and hold in high honor members who contribute large sums of money. These individuals enjoy the respect and privilege that comes with their generous giving and so they almost become indispensable to the respective church.

In conclusion, I don’t think the present church of Christ resembles the church in Acts , where the members gave freely and cheerfully with no hidden motives of ascending to power and fame. While it is understandable that as the church grows, it is in need of businessmen and boards to guide its finances, we must not forget our main purpose of spreading the love of Jesus to people all over the world and making disciples. Each believer should give as they can and do it with the hope that their gift, no matter how small or big, will be stewarded carefully and faithfully by the pastor and his staff to the glory of God. As the body of Christ, each one of us should make Matthew 6:33 our daily prayer. Being human, we wish for nice things, money, influence, and comfort, but let us first faithfully seek the Kingdom of God and go about His business first, and He will satisfy all our needs and heart’s desires. Let us stop using the Kingdom of God to satisfy our wants first.