Giving, of possessions

Making one's possession available for God's service in the way in which he directs, as a practical recognition that all possessions come from him.

Ministries that require the giving of material possessions

The relief of the poor

Proverbs 28:27 See also Leviticus 25:25; Deuteronomy 15:7–8; Isaiah 58:7; Matthew 19:21 parallels Mark 10:21, Luke 18:22; Luke 12:33; Romans 12:13; Galatians 2:10

Whoever gives to the poor will not be in need, but he who hides his eyes will receive many curses.

The support of God's servants

1 Timothy 5:17–18 See also Numbers 3:48, Numbers 5:9; 2 Kings 4:8–10; Matthew 10:10; Galatians 6:6; Philippians 4:15–18

Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages.”

The care of widows and orphans

James 1:27 See also Deuteronomy 26:12; Ruth 2:5–12; 1 Timothy 5:3–4

Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Motives for the giving of material possessions

Obedience to God

2 Corinthians 9:7 See also Exodus 30:11–16; Leviticus 12:6–8; Deuteronomy 14:28; Malachi 3:8–10; Matthew 22:21 parallels Mark 12:17, Luke 20:25; Romans 13:6–7

Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.

Gratitude for God's generosity

1 Chronicles 29:14 See also Genesis 28:20–22; Deuteronomy 26:9–10; 1 Samuel 1:27–28

But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? For everything comes from You, and from Your own hand we have given to You.

Love for others

1 John 3:17 See also 2 Chronicles 28:15; Matthew 7:9–11; Luke 10:33–35

If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?

The manner of giving material possessions

Willingly and cheerfully

Matthew 10:8 See also Exodus 25:2, Exodus 35:5, Exodus 35:22; 2 Kings 12:4; 1 Chronicles 29:6, 1 Chronicles 29:9, 1 Chronicles 29:17; 2 Chronicles 24:10, 2 Chronicles 35:7–9; Ezra 8:28; 2 Corinthians 8:11–12

Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.

Unostentatiously

Matthew 6:1–4

Regularly

1 Corinthians 16:2

Generously

Exodus 36:5; Numbers 7:13; 1 Chronicles 29:3–4; Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 8:2–3; 1 Timothy 6:18

God measures his people's giving

With a reckoning different from the world's

2 Chronicles 6:8; Mark 12:41–44 parallel Luke 21:1–4

With regard for people's capacity to give

Leviticus 14:30, Leviticus 27:8; Deuteronomy 16:17; Ezra 2:69; Acts 11:29; 2 Corinthians 8:12

God rewards the giver appropriately

Philippians 4:18–19 See also 2 Chronicles 31:10; Proverbs 11:25, Proverbs 22:9, Proverbs 28:27; Ecclesiastes 11:1 encouragement to be enterprising in giving; Isaiah 58:10; Matthew 10:42, Matthew 25:34–36; Luke 16:9; Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians 9:6

I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

God's reward overwhelming the giver

Proverbs 3:9–10 See also Malachi 3:10; Luke 6:38

Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.

God's giving: the model for his people's giving

Matthew 10:8 See also 2 Corinthians 8:8–9, 2 Corinthians 9:15

Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.