How Much is Liberal? A Biblical Examination of Giving

Introduction: The Question of Giving

The topic of giving is a recurring and essential aspect of the Christian life. While not always popular, it is a vital area of spiritual growth. A common question arises: How much is liberal? The New Testament serves as our guide in matters of faith, and it offers principles for giving that challenge believers to consider both their responsibility and their generosity. This article will explore the biblical teachings on giving, focusing on what it means to give liberally, with faith, purpose, and joy.

The New Testament Principles of Giving

The New Testament outlines several principles for giving. First, giving should be regular and intentional. In 1 Corinthians 16:2, Paul instructs, “On the first day of every week, each one of you is to put aside and save as he may prosper, so that no collections need to be made when I come.” This directive encourages systematic giving, not sporadic or impulsive offerings.

Another key principle is giving cheerfully. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul writes, “Each one must do just as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This attitude transforms giving from a mere obligation into an act of worship and joy.

Finally, believers are commanded to give liberally. Romans 12:8 says, “The one who gives, with generosity.” The concept of liberality encompasses both the size of the gift and the spirit in which it is given. While the New Testament does not prescribe a specific amount or percentage, it does challenge Christians to reflect their love for God through generous giving.

Biblical Examples of Giving

The Widow’s Offering
One of the most poignant examples of giving is found in Mark 12:41-44. Jesus observes a poor widow who puts two small coins into the treasury, while others contribute large amounts. He says, “Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the contributors to the treasury; for they all put in out of their surplus, but she, out of her poverty, put in all she owned, all she had to live on.” This story highlights that the measure of giving is not about the amount but the sacrifice and faith behind it.
Abraham’s Tithe
Abraham’s encounter with Melchizedek in Genesis 14 provides another example. After a victorious battle, Abraham gives Melchizedek, the priest of God Most High, a tenth of all he had. Hebrews 7:4 reflects on this event: “Now observe how great this man was to whom Abraham, the patriarch, gave a tenth of the choicest spoils.” This act of giving demonstrates Abraham’s acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty and provision.
Jacob’s Vow
In Genesis 28:20-22, Jacob makes a vow to God, saying, “If God will be with me and will keep me on this journey that I take, and give me food to eat and garments to wear, and I return to my father’s house in safety, then the Lord will be my God… and of everything that You give me I will assuredly give a tenth to You.” This example shows Jacob’s commitment to honor God with his resources, even as he relied on God’s protection and provision.

The Call to Liberal Giving

Liberal giving involves more than financial generosity—it reflects trust in God’s promises. In 2 Corinthians 9:6, Paul teaches, “Now this I say: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows generously will also reap generously.” This agricultural metaphor emphasizes that a generous spirit leads to abundant blessings, not necessarily material wealth but spiritual enrichment and God’s favor.

Jesus Himself affirmed the joy of giving in Acts 20:35, saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” This mindset shifts the focus from personal gain to the privilege of contributing to God’s work.

How Much is Liberal?

Determining what qualifies as “liberal” giving is ultimately a matter of personal conviction and faith. The Bible does not assign a fixed percentage for New Testament believers, as it did for the Israelites under the Law of Moses. Instead, Christians are guided by principles of generosity, faith, and stewardship.

A Matter of the Heart
Giving is a deeply personal act, requiring prayerful consideration. Each believer must ask, What would God consider liberal? As 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “For God does not see as man sees, since man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Liberal giving flows from a heart that values God above material possessions.
An Example of Generosity
Consider the example of the Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians 8:1-3. Paul commends their generosity: “In a severe ordeal of affliction, their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave voluntarily.” Their giving was not dictated by wealth but by their love for God and others.

The Practical Application of Giving

Giving Requires Planning
Paul advised the Corinthians to prepare their gifts in advance: “So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers that they go on ahead to you and arrange in advance your previously promised generous gift, that the same would be ready as a generous gift, and not as one grudgingly given due to greediness” (2 Corinthians 9:5). Planning allows believers to give thoughtfully and avoid the temptation to give sparingly or reluctantly.
Trusting God’s Provision
One of the greatest barriers to liberal giving is fear—fear of lacking enough for oneself. Yet, Scripture assures us of God’s faithfulness. Philippians 4:19 promises, “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Trusting in this promise enables believers to give generously, knowing that God will provide.
Faithfulness in Small Things
Jesus taught in Luke 16:10, “The one who is faithful in a very little thing is also faithful in much.” Faithful giving begins with what we have, regardless of the amount. Whether it is a widow’s mite or a wealthy person’s abundance, the act of giving demonstrates our dependence on and devotion to God.

Conclusion: A Life of Generosity

Romans 12:1 calls believers to a life of total surrender: “Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” Giving is an extension of this surrender, reflecting our recognition that everything we have belongs to God.

In considering how much to give, the question is not one of obligation but opportunity. How can we use what God has entrusted to us to advance His kingdom and glorify His name? As we give liberally, with faith and joy, we reflect the generosity of our Savior and partner in His work on earth. Let us “give, and it will be given to you; they will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38).