How should I steward my wealth?

While stewardship certainly includes much more than money, it does not exclude it. In the Old Testament, believers were required to give a tenth of their income to support the Temple and the needs of the poor. While the New Testament does not teach at length on the subject of tithing, Jesus encourages people to continue this Old Testament practice (Matt. 23:23). The Church is told that they should give as they are “able and even beyond (their) ability” (2 Corinthians 8:3). Jesus himself teaches that his disciples’ relationship to wealth should be far more radical and generous than that of the Old Testament. He reminded his followers that God was “pleased to give them the kingdom” which, Jesus says, should liberate us to “sell your possessions and give to the poor…For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:33-34). Therefore, a tithe (10%) is seen as a minimum guideline of giving for those of us who have been “given the kingdom.” Of course, there are seasons to economic life that sometimes strain a Christian’s ability to give. In many cases, good planning over time will be necessary to move our giving into Biblical proportions without reneging on legal and personal financial obligations.

(2 of 5 from City Church, Philadelphia PA)