"How much should I give?"
"And how do I know if the money is properly channelled to the intended recipients?"
These are 2 questions regarding financial giving that Paul addresses.
1. Affordability.
Though Paul used the churches of Macedonia as an example of grace giving, he is careful to also emphasise that it is not the benchmark for all churches. One should give according to what one has, and not what he does not have. In other words, there is not to be any competition regarding the exact amount of giving. He also explains that our giving should not be to the degree that the recipients are eased but we are burdened. And lastly, the goal or aim of giving is so that needs are met.
2. Accountability.
To prevent any reasonable doubt or allegation of mishandling of funds, Paul implemented an open and accountable process with 3 godly men overseeing the collection of funds. Church offerings should also be managed in an open and accountable way. That way, people will be more encouraged to give.
But most of all, let us remember that the greatest giver is our God, who sent His son to save us from our sins!
