Is Your Church Setting a Faithful Example of Stewardship?
As I speak with church leaders throughout the Southeastern District about Ministry Partnership, I’m often struck by a recurring theme—many congregations seem to overlook the biblical call to firstfruits giving. It’s as if the principle taught in Proverbs 3:9—“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce”—is reserved only for individual believers, not for the church body itself.
But stewardship is not just a personal matter—it’s a collective calling. When we, as leaders, model conditional or hesitant giving, what message are we sending to our congregations? Are we reflecting the trust in God’s provision that we ask our members to embrace?
The Apostle Paul encouraged the church in Corinth with these words: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). This kind of joyful generosity begins with leadership. If we are to cultivate faithful stewards in our congregations, we must first demonstrate faithful stewardship as a church.
At the Southeastern District, we are committed to this principle. We return a double tithe—20% of our income—to the LCMS, trusting that God will multiply these gifts for the advancement of His Kingdom.
If you’re wondering how your congregation can grow in its stewardship practices or how to set a strong example for your members, I’d be glad to talk with you. Feel free to reach out to Kirk Hymes.
Together, let’s model the kind of generous, firstfruits giving that honors the Lord and inspires His people.