Greenville Free Methodist Church

One of the ways we foster discipleship and Christ-likeness here at GFMC is by encouraging the trait of radical generosity. Radical generosity is a key biblical concept that helps us understand what true love is all about. Jesus frequently described divine love by upholding the standard of radical generosity. It shows up in the Sermon on the Mount, in the instructions to the rich young ruler, and in the parable of the good Samaritan – just to name a few. It is not a side issue.

 

Over the past several months I have occasionally spoken and written about how radical generosity relates to matters of tithing and giving. For example, I have not only urged us to follow the biblical standard of the tithe (ten percent) but to consider the practice of graduated tithing. On one occasion I even recommended considering a reverse tithe (keep 10%, give 90%) every once in a while when unexpected money comes your way.

 

My purpose in providing these examples has not been to impose guilt or establish a particular expression of radical generosity that everyone must follow. Instead, I simply want to supply suggestions that illustrate radical generosity so that we will open our congregation for further outpourings of the Holy Spirit and experience the divine joy of giving – a biblical promise.

 

I have also quoted more than once Jesus’ command that we should not lay up treasures on earth. Occasionally I have fielded questions about what I believe about matters such as savings or retirement accounts. Here’s how I typically respond.

 

Everything hangs on the question of what Jesus meant by "lay up” treasures. However, He chose not to define what He meant in practical terms. Because He simply stated the undefined principle, I don't believe it is my place to go any farther. This is one of those situations where Jesus states a principle that raises questions that are designed for His Spirit to answer in direct consultation with each individual.

What Did He Mean By That?

However, I believe it is safe to say that it is not wrong to save for retirement. At the same time, I believe each person should relate to retirement savings questions by asking God to check his or her heart in two ways:

¨ First, what standard of living should I plan for in my retirement that will be pleasing to God? In this sense, the question is no different than the one we each face regarding our present day standard of living based on our current income.

¨ Second, am I prepared to make even some of those savings available to God (like Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac) should He call me to do so?

 

These are heart-questions regarding our source of security. That's always between God and each individual.

 

However, that doesn’t mean the church should be silent on the matter. Nothing illumines our kingdom commitment more than how we use our money. Guiding our congregation to consider these money matters is among my primary responsibilities. And so I urge us all to lay our treasures before God for His inspection and instruction.

 

In just a few days you will be receiving from me a simple guide to help you bring your finances before God. Would you use that guide prayerfully? It is not a fundraiser or a pledge campaign. It will simply give you a helpful tool for keeping your finances before God and yourself in a position for God’s blessing.

 

The bottom line? Radical generosity is a divine trait that should be expressed in our lives only by divine guidance. When that happens we get to experience divine joy.

 

Doug Newton

Senior Pastor