Giving is one of the central themes in the Bible. Jesus talked more about this subject than Heaven, Hell, or prayer. To understand what it means to be a Christ follower, we must also understand what it means to be a giver.
Generosity encompasses everything in our lives from how we handle our resources of time, skills, energy and money. While generosity is broader than money, often how we handle our money reveals what’s really important to us. Jesus taught that what we treasure reveals our hearts.
“‘Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.’” — MATTHEW 6: 19-21 ESV
The Why of Giving
At Gateway, we want people to understand they are giving to God through the church; not to the church. The giving of tithes and offerings is worship to Jesus and an expression of the relationship between the individual giver and the Lord. Giving is not considered a business transaction but rather an expression of gratitude toward God.
Gateway and Money
We also want you to feel confident that Gateway faithfully stewards the money and resources it receives. We strive to be transparent, wise and prayerful in operating our church finances. You should know that Gateway maintains strict confidentiality over giving.
Each year an annual budget is prayerfully prepared and is presented at a community meeting that is open to anyone. Members of Gateway are invited to vote to approve the budget Our budget includes expenses such as building operating costs, payroll expenses and the costs of running various ministries such as KidzTown, youth, local and international missions.
We deeply desire to steward our finances in such a trustworthy way that each person is able to focus on what God is calling him or her to give with confidence that it will be used wisely to further the kingdom of God.
Not sure where to start with giving? Check out Financial Peace University (FPU) which we offer at Gateway on an ongoing basis. FPU is a practical class about taking control of your finances, getting out of debt, planning for your future and living so that you can give generously.
