While under the Old Testament law, the Israelite was commanded to bring a tenth of his increase to God. Under the principles of grace (New Testament; or Covenant), the believer is considered a STEWARD, or housekeeper, or manager for God. The money which he holds in his possession is not really his, but rather God’s and is given to the believer to use in life for the glory and honor of Christ and His Kingdom.1
As a Christian, you should remember that in acquiring money, your principle should be to do all to the glory of God.2 In possessing, you are to hold it only as God directs 3, and in giving (dispensing) of money you must know that God is Sovereign over all.4
The central New Testament passage on stewardship is from 2 Corinthians 8:1 to 9:15.5. There, God’s principles for giving under grace are explained. We must remember we are not under a ‘tithing’ covenant. The principle is good, but we must exceed the (law); "your righteousness must surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees" 6; or we must exceed the tithe; the tenth. Christ is our Pattern. He did not give a tenth, but gave all.
The giving of the Corinthians was out of deep poverty. God is not dependent upon the wealth of the earth to carry on His purposes. Rather, He delights to do great things through people who have little or nothing. It is not the amount of the gift that is important in God’s sight but rather the love and the heart that prompts it. We still must obey in giving freely and not keeping for ourselves what belongs to God alone. Giving of time and talent are active parts of stewardship that also require sacrifice and the same giving attitude as money.
It is very important to remember that under grace giving is not by commandment. Under the law a tenth was commanded. Under grace the giving is voluntary. Yet, God has bound up both happiness and success in the Christian life with the love and gratitude that results in generous giving. If we cannot obey in giving and learn the joy of giving, there is little hope of progressing into other areas of maturity in the Christian walk. It is because money is a test of the heart.7
All giving should be cheerfully done. Without this, God is not pleased. Giving also should be systematic and regular. The Bible tells us to give an amount each week (or per your pay schedule). This amount is to be placed in a special fund reserved for God’s purposes. However, all giving is to be made following God’s giving first to us. Thus, the responsibility first is God’s, then the believers. In addition to this, there is the challenge to give liberally and see how greatly God will respond.8 The principle is sowing and reaping. Whatever we sow, we will reap. It is an unbreakable principle.
1. 1 Corinthians 9:16
2. 1 Corinthians 10:31
3. 1 Timothy 6:17-18
4. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8
5. 2 Corinthians 8:1-24 - 2 Corinthians 9:1-15
6. Matthew 5:20
7. Matthew 6:21
8. 1 Corinthians 16:2
