The Cost of Generosity

Generosity. For some of us, the term conjures up images of offering plates and pledge envelopes. Of capital campaigns and fund drives. And this is indeed part of generosity, as evidenced in the Biblical capital campaigns for the building of the tabernacle and later of Solomon’s temple and its replacement.

But is this really the extent of what generosity means? Or is it something more?

Not all giving is generous giving. Paul talks about giving cheerfully rather than reluctantly or under compulsion. The Pharisees tithed but their hearts were not generous, as evidenced by their lack of concern for mercy and justice – the more important matters of the law.

True generosity costs something. It’s not giving out of excess or offering the leftovers at the end of the month. True generosity is a priority in our finances and in our lives. It’s giving of the firstfruits. True generosity requires some “instead of” thinking.

But generosity also has significant benefits. It draws us closer to God and breaks the hold that money has on us. It results in praise to God and blessing to others.

Join us as podcast host James Lenhoff discusses the costs – and benefits – of generosity, and encourages church leaders to equip their congregations with Biblical teaching on the subject.