How can we implement the grace of giving in our church community? Setting the Scene: Titus, Corinth, and Us “So we urged Titus to help complete this act of grace, just as he had started.” (2 Corinthians 8:6) Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that generosity is not a side project; it is a grace to be completed. Titus represents the encourager who keeps the vision alive. Our churches need the same spirit—leaders and members who insist that giving remain at the heart of discipleship. What Scripture Calls “Grace” in Giving • Grace is God’s generous initiative to us (2 Corinthians 8:9); we simply echo it back. • Grace is tangible, measurable action, not sentiment (James 2:15-17). • Grace flows from faith, love, and zeal (2 Corinthians 8:7). • Grace is joyful, even in hardship (2 Corinthians 8:2). Core Principles to Cultivate 1. Ownership: Everything belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). 2. Stewardship: We manage what He entrusts (1 Corinthians 4:2). 3. Proportion: “Each of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income” (1 Corinthians 16:2). 4. Cheerfulness: “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). 5. Faith Expectation: “Test Me… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven” (Malachi 3:10). Practical Steps for Our Congregation • Teach the full counsel of Scripture on money—Sunday messages, small-group studies, youth lessons. • Offer quarterly “budget nights” where members learn practical stewardship (Proverbs 21:5). • Encourage first-fruits giving: set automated giving or envelope systems so the Lord receives before any other bill (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Highlight stories of God’s provision—testimonies during services, newsletters, social media. • Establish a benevolence fund managed by trusted deacons; publish anonymized impact reports. • Pair new believers with seasoned “giving mentors” who model generosity, just as Titus guided Corinth. • Organize periodic “Acts 2 Weekends”: collect food, clothing, and finances to meet needs within the body and the neighborhood (Acts 2:44-45). Motivations That Keep the Fire Burning • Christ’s example: “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9). • Eternal dividends: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • Reciprocal blessing: “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). • Corporate witness: Radical generosity authenticates the gospel before a watching world (John 13:35). Guardrails and Accountability • Transparent annual financial reports; open-door policy for questions. • Two-signature policy on all disbursements; rotating audit teams. • Clear written policies for mission giving, benevolence, and capital projects to avoid ad-hoc decisions. Celebrating the Harvest • Dedicate a yearly “Grace of Giving” Sunday: recount milestones, thank volunteers, and present fresh goals. • Send personal notes to givers, emphasizing gratitude not coercion (Philippians 1:3-5). • When needs are met—mission trips funded, medical bills covered—pause the service for congregational praise (Psalm 115:1). By urging one another as Paul urged Titus, we complete this grace. The fruit is a church family whose open hands mirror the open heart of our Savior. |
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