Your Giving Questions Answered

Greetings in the name of our Lord,

Giving can stir up many questions. Our money often reflects our work, our interests, and what we have accomplished. It can also represent security and independence. As we consider what it means to give faithfully, we have an opportunity to reflect on where we place our trust and how we respond to God’s generosity.

Over the years, I have been asked these three questions often. If you have other questions, please email me. I would be glad to hear from you and explore what the Bible teaches with you.

Isn’t the biblical teaching about giving 10% an Old Testament concept? How does it apply to Christians who follow the New Testament?

The answer is both yes and no. The tithe (giving 10% of our income) has Old Testament roots, while the New Testament emphasizes generous, sacrificial giving and the giver’s heart. Alongside “How much should I give?” we might ask, “Does my giving reflect my trust in God?”

For those with great wealth, giving 10% may involve little sacrifice. Rick Warren is the founding pastor of one of the largest churches in the United States. As his income from his book sales grew, Pastor Warren and his wife maintained their lifestyle and gave away 90% of their income, keeping 10%. His example of radical generosity invites us to prayerfully consider what sacrificial giving looks like in our own lives.

Should I calculate my tithe before or after taxes and other deductions?

I understand the biblical principle of “first fruits” as setting aside our gift to God before other expenses, including taxes and deductions. From this perspective, we calculate the tithe on gross income, making giving a prayerful priority rather than an afterthought.

Do gifts to other organizations in the community count toward my tithe?

The Bible does not give an explicit answer for every situation, though it describes offerings for the poor and the temple. Many Christians understand the tithe as the first 10% given to the church, with gifts to other causes offered beyond it. As you discern your giving, I encourage you to pray, reflect on Scripture, and seek God’s guidance with an open heart.

Wherever you are on the journey of giving, I hope you will receive these words as an invitation to grow in faith, not as a burden. Scripture calls us to share generously and to place our trust in God rather than in money or possessions. Giving helps turn our hearts beyond ourselves toward God and others. Let us keep encouraging one another as we learn to give with gratitude, trust, and joy.

I look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we continue to grow in faith together.

Grace and blessings,

Pastor John