Stewardship Questions to Consider

1. What is the basis for the tithe?

In the Old Testament, believers were required to give a tenth of their income to the support of the ministry and the needs of the poor. The New Testament teaches that we should give as we are "able and even beyond [our] ability" (2 Corinthians 8:3).

Therefore, the tithe (10%) is seen as a kind of minimum guideline for giving.

2. Do I give 10% of my gross or net income? Do I tithe on just my salary or also on my bonus?

Scripture teaches that we are to give back to God our "firstfruits" (Exodus 23:16, 19). Proverbs 3:9 encourages us to "honor the LORD with [our] wealth, with the firstfruits of [our] crops." This is consistent with our understanding that we are first and foremost citizens of God's kingdom, seeking to invest our resources (time, talents, money) in ways that are consistent with His values and priorities. Therefore, at the very least, each person should prayerfully consider their annual giving in relation to these passages.

3. What if I am unable to give 10% right now?

For many people, giving a larger part of their financial resources without reneging on legal and personal obligations will take good planning over time. We should all recognize that there are seasons to economic life, be responsive to our debts, and honor our economic responsibilities to our families. The key is to make sure you are giving what you can to support the work of God's Kingdom.

4. Should I give all of my tithe/offering to Redeemer Presbyterian Church?

Your gift is an act of personal worship to God in response to his grace in your life. The allocation of your time and money to God's service should be a byproduct of prayer and consultation with other Christians to who you are accountable. However, if you consider Redeemer your "home church," you might consider allocating a significant portion of your tithe and offering to the community where you invest most of your time, and where others are investing in you.