Why We Give
There are at least four reasons to give to the LORD through the local church.
First, for obedience. The Scriptures teach us that the inclination of our hearts is to give a tenth of income (Gen 14:17-20), and this inclination is then required in the Torah (Lev 27:30-34) and underscored by our Lord, Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:23).
Second, for discipleship. God does not need earthly dollars, but wants his disciples to become like him. He is the ultimate Giver (James 1:17) and intends all his disciples to become givers--just like him. God indeed utilizes those dollars to bring his kingdom to fullness.
Third, for commitment. The local church is family, each of us devoted to the mission that Jesus has given us and to one another. We give a tenth (tithe) and above the tithe (gifts) because we are committed to reaching Sheboygan County and the world together. We are a part of something much bigger than ourselves when we are committed to one another in Jesus Christ through the tithe.
Fourth, for joy. In 2 Corinthians 8 and 9, Paul writes that giving both increases our joy (8:1-3) and expresses our happiness (9:7). We should learn to give out of duty (see #1, above), but we continue to give and increase it out of joy! And God "loves a cheerful giver" in a special way. Give generously and watch your joy overflow!
