Christian giving is not tithing, as known to the Jews of the Old Testament. Rather it is a freewill offering. What does Christian giving involve?
1) Giving as we prosper (1 Corinthians 16:2). We are to give according to our earnings.
2) Giving as we purpose (2 Corinthians 9:7). We should plan ahead, and this planning should be from our hearts.
3) Giving cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). It should never be done with a resentful nature, but rather out of love. Does our giving elevate our hearts, that we realize that we are doing it cheerfully?
Another Dimension to Christian Giving
It is reciprocal. Christian giving is really a response to something that has already been done - God's initial giving to us.
1) God's giving to us is primary.
2) Our giving back to God is secondary.God Gives to Us...
...in a material way (James 1:17). He has given us our life and our health, and he provides for us ways to sustain our health.
...in a spiritual way
a) through His son (John 3:16)
b) spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3)Our giving to God is a reflection of our love for God (1 John 4:19)
1 Corinthians 16:2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.
2 Corinthians 9:7 Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
1 John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us.
