Introduction
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ghana (ELCG), giving is not treated as a burden or religious obligation. Rather, it is seen as a joyful act of worship, a natural and thankful response to God’s abundant grace through Jesus Christ. Giving flows not from law or guilt, but from love and faith.
Key Principles Behind Giving in the ELCG
Motivated by Love, Not by Law
Giving in the ELCG is not about following a rule to gain God’s approval. Instead, it’s a response to the love God has already shown us. We give because Christ first gave Himself for us. This grace-filled response reflects the New Testament teaching that believers live by faith, not by legal demands.
A Cheerful and Willing Heart
God desires willing and joyful giving. As written in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Giving should never be forced—it should be a heartfelt act of devotion.
Proportional Giving According to Blessings
While the Old Testament practice of tithing (giving 10%) is a helpful guideline, the ELCG does not mandate it as a law. Instead, believers are encouraged to give a proportion of their income that reflects how God has blessed them. This allows giving to be fair, intentional, and personal.
Stewardship: Managing God’s Gifts
Everything we have—money, time, talents, and resources—comes from God. Giving, then, is not just about money. It is an act of stewardship, a way of honoring God by offering back a portion of what He has entrusted to us.
Supporting God’s Mission
Gifts and offerings are used to advance the church’s mission—preaching the Gospel, serving others, and expanding Christ’s kingdom. Through giving, members participate in the work of the church locally and globally.
Trusting God’s Provision
Giving is an act of faith. Even as believers give from what they have, they do so with the confidence that God will continue to provide for their daily needs. This trust strengthens our dependence on God, not on material wealth.
Tithing in the ELCG Context
The practice of giving 10% of one’s income (tithing) is respected as a good discipline and guide for Christian generosity. However, the ELCG emphasizes that tithing is not a law under the New Covenant. What matters more is the spirit of giving—one that is joyful, generous, and rooted in faith. Whether someone gives more or less than 10% is not the central issue. What’s important is that the offering reflects a thankful and trusting heart.
Ways to Give in the ELCG
The church provides various means for members to give:
During worship services (offering plates or boxes)
Mobile money and online platforms
Scheduled giving through banks or church offices
These methods are designed to help members give intentionally and prayerfully, as part of their worship and ongoing relationship with God.
Conclusion
In summary, giving in the ELCG is about grace, faith, and worship—not about pressure or obligation. Every gift, no matter the size, when given with a joyful heart, becomes part of God’s work through His church. We give not to earn God’s love, but because we already have it in full through Jesus Christ.
Amen