The privilege of gospel partnership
"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." (2 Cor 8:9)
It is because of the overflowing grace of God toward us in Christ that we are compelled to give. Our financial partnership in the work of the gospel is a vital aspect of Christian living, and a key element of this response.
Here are a few important principles about "excelling in the grace of giving" (2 Cor 8:7), as well as some encouragements about how to practically arrange your giving commitment.
Giving should be generous, thoughtful and cheerful
‘They gave as much as they were able … they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people … Since you excel in everything … see that you also excel in this grace of giving.’ (2 Cor 8:3-7)
‘Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.’ (2 Cor 9:6-7)
Giving decisions should be generous, thoughtful and cheerful, as a prayerful response to God’s goodness to us in Christ, boldly sowing gospel seed in the expectation of an abundant harvest.
Giving should be proportional to our means
‘Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality.’ (2 Cor 8:13)
It is right that each person’s giving should correspond to their means, according to the gifts given to us by God (Rm 12:6). To some, God has entrusted greater resources to be used for the spread of the gospel, all to the glory of God (Mt 25:14-30).
Giving should focus on the needy and gospel work
Christians ought to focus their giving according to God’s priorities. In particular, we see that God’s heart is for the care of the poor and weak, and the spread of the gospel. We might add that church members have a special responsibility to support the work of their church.
‘In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.’ (1 Cor 9:14)
Local churches rely exclusively on their members for funding. Just as church is the focus of our ministry and fellowship investment, likewise it should be the focus of our giving investment.
How Can I Play My Part?
Talk with your family and assess your overall income. Thank God for his provision of resources to share and to give to the work of the gospel. Settle on a giving figure that is generous, sacrificial and which you can give cheerfully (many Christians find 10% of income a helpful guide).
Think and pray about where your giving will go.
How much will you give to the work of the gospel at church? Which other Christian ministries will you focus on?
One off donations are gratefully appreciated. However, it is making the commitment of a consistent, regular gift that enables churches to plan their ministries with confidence. Automating this will also enable you to be as generous as you intend to be.
How to Give
Our account details for direct deposit or scheduled transfer are listed below.
General Giving
BSB: 082-135
Account No: 411 871 337
Account Name: St Stephen’s Normanhurst General Account
Reference: (Please include your service time and surname to assist the treasurer)
Tax-Deductible Giving
BSB 082-135
Account: 41-206-8378
Name: CEC Fund Account
For tax receipts, please include your name in the description or email treasurer@ststephens.church if you need one in joint names