The Lodestar

The second important subject that Jesus taught is finance, the first being the Kingdom of God. The apostles, particularly Paul and James, maintained Jesus' teaching line because Christian attitudes toward money and its use are integral to Christian spirituality.

Jesus told the young, rich ruler who wanted to follow him that he could not be a disciple unless he detached from his possessions (Luke 18:18—30). Jesus’ presence convicted Zacchaeus of his financial excesses and led him to repentance (Luke 19:1—10). Jesus held that it is difficult (not impossible) for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God (Mark 10:25).

Peter insisted that the early church members must be honest in their giving. Barnabas sold only part of the land he had in Cyprus and laid the proceeds at the apostles' feet (Acts 4:34—36). But Ananias and Saphira hid some money and pretended to have brought the entire sale proceeds to the community. They were condemned for their dishonesty (Acts 5:1—11). Every member was not required to contribute to the community, but giving must be honest.

When Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, he urged them to contribute to the poor believers in the early church, insisting that they give with open hands and hearts. He insisted that giving should not be under compulsion, but they must give cheerfully because God loves cheerful givers.

Parting with some of our money is not a happy thing. But being a disciple of Christ means that we should give cheerfully. God is not interested in how much we bring but how we do it. The amount does not matter, but the manner does. The cheerful givers thank God for the opportunities to give.

Reflect on your own heart towards giving today. Are you holding back or giving cheerfully as a true disciple of Christ? Take a step—no matter how small—to give honestly and joyfully, trusting God with your finances and embracing the blessings that come from generous, sincere giving.

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