An offering is that which is freely given by Christians to the work of the Lord, the local church, and/or ministries and missions. But offerings are far more than simply the cheques we write on Sunday. We are to offer much more to God than our monetary resources. Romans 12:1 exhorts us to offer our bodies “as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to god” as part of our worship. Romans 6:13 gives the reason for offering ourselves: because we are “those who have been brought from death to life,” and, as such, we are to “offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness.”
God is not nearly as interested in our monetary offerings as he is in our submission and obedience. The truth is that he doesn’t need our resources to accomplish his plans and purposes. After all, he owns the cattle on a thousand hills (Psalm 50:10) and needs nothing from us. What he desires, however, and what he values, is the heart that overflows with gratitude and thanksgiving to the god who saved us and who gives us all things, knowing our needs before we even ask (Matthew 6:8). Such a heart gives generously, willingly, and cheerfully in response to the love and grace that abound in Christ (2 Corinthians 9:6–8).
Why Offering and Tithing?
Everything we own and everything we have comes from God. So, when we give, we simply offer him a small portion of the abundance he has already given to us. Giving is an expression of our thankfulness and praise to god. It comes from a heart of worship that recognizes everything we have and give already belongs to the Lord.
Who is Eligible to Give Tithe or Offering?
On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. (1 Corinthians 16:2). Notice that the offering was set aside on the first day of the week. When we are willing to offer the first portion of our wealth back to god, then God knows he has our hearts. He knows we are submitted completely in trust and obedience to our savior.