Giving

What about Tithing?
The principle of tithing commanded in the Old Testament was a prescribed 10% pledge to be given for the work of the priests and temple (Lev. 27:30). A blessing was promised when the people fulfilled their pledge (Mal. 3:10). Tithing is a helpful guideline for portioning money specifically to the church, providing we do not see it as a legalistic requirement nor pride ourselves when we give 10% but have the capacity to give more. As a minimum requirement the tithe ensured the viability of ministry, but it was not set as a limit for giving. For some 10% of income is a huge slice, for others it is a ‘drop in the ocean.’
Let God’s promise guide your giving; “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver (2Cor. 9:6-7).
Any of the elders, one of the Pastors or the Treasurer will be happy to talk with you if you have any questions.
How do I give my money to WCCC?
There are various ways in which you can give:
- Arrange a regular direct debit from your bank account. Forms to put this in place are available from your Bank.
- Set up a regular transfer with your Internet Banking facility.
- Place money in the church collection box, located on the information table
- Request envelopes from the Treasurer for regular contributions
You may also give to various local and international ministries through the collections in each church service. These are earmarked for the cause mentioned weekly in the newsletter.
Which is the best way?
That depends on your circumstances and your preference. From the point of view of simplicity, regularity and amount of work involved, the direct bank debit system is by far the best. Just fill out a form and give it to your bank /credit union. If you set it up on the Internet, donations are automatic. You don’t have do anything else, and the church treasurer doesn’t have to count it or bank it. We recommend the use of this facility to you..
Further Information.
If you require the church bank details for regular giving purposes, please contact us at the office.
Thinking about Giving
We’d like to encourage you to think and earnestly pray about your giving to the work of the church. Giving is not just about handing over money. Giving reflects a life dedicated to God. Giving financially flows from a deep understanding of such things as the generosity of God (2Cor. 9:8-11), trust in his provision (Matt. 6:19 – 34), God’s mission for the church (Matt. 28:19-20) and the principle of good stewardship of all of God’s resources, including time, abilities and material possessions (Matt.25:14 -30). In all of this, one person’s situation is different to another, but there’s one thing that we all share – God’s call for us to be positive and generous in supporting kingdom ministry and mission in and through the church.
Some Points to meditate on
- We are to use money responsibly.
- Wealth is a gift of God. It belongs to him and is to be used as he requires. In particular, God wants us to use of our wealth to do good and thus to bring him glory (2Cor. 9:10 – 11).
- Wealth, is an opportunity for blessing. The world’s view of the use of money is buying and selling, but God’s view for the use of money is giving and receiving. God pours out his blessings upon us personally and as a church so that we can bless others and be blessed in return (Acts 20:35).
- The church needs financial resources to advance the gospel both locally and globally. God’s people are required to support the work of his church (1Cor. 9:7-12). The more resources, the more work is possible. We don’t want to be an average church . We want to be a champion church. This means champion commitment.
- Greed is self centered idolatry that hinders the work of God (Col. 3:5, Luke 12:15).
Attitude to Giving
Thoughtfully… “How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me?” (Psalm 116:12) Think of giving as an expression of gratitude to God for all that he has done and continues to do.
Gladly… “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Cor. 9:7)
Sacrificially… “Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability.” (2 Cor 8:2,3)
Earnestly… “Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.” (2 Cor 8:4)
Honestly… What Ananias and Sapphira did not do, as described in Acts 5:1-5
Regularly… “On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money, in keeping with his income…” (1 Cor 16:2). People should begin contributing pretty much as soon as they begin regularly earning.
Generously… “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.” (1 Chron 29:14). We would encourage you to adjust your lifestyle so that you are in a position to be generous.
According to your means… “The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to provide help for the brothers l living in Judea.” (Acts 11:29) For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.. (2Cor. 8:12).