What is Stewardship? Stewardship involves more than money. What are we doing to spread
the word of God, by example, by our actions, by helping to teach others?
Stewardship means many things — helping others to find God, giving of your time
on committees or to teach in our church school, singing in the choir, furnishing
transportation to church for others who need it, calling on needy individuals
and those who are sick, sharing your talents with others — and, yes, in helping
financially to ensure the ongoing of our church.
No no likes to have someone tell them how much to give (of time, talents or
money). In our church we feel this is a matter of personal decision based on
many factors. We cannot deny, though, that all those who give testify that
they receive far more than they give. The principle is that each individual
Christian should make their gift based on the basis of their sense of
gratitude to God for the blessings they have received and enjoy. Their gift
should not be primarily in relation to budgets nor to what their neighbor
gives; but most generously from the TOP of their income, as a deep and
profound expression of their love for God.
Ten Reasons Why We Should Consider a First—Fruits
Commitment
Because I promised to support the
church with my gifts when I became a church member.
Because I receive inspiration,
courage and hope from my church.
Because I want to bear the share
that Christ expects me to carry.
Because I am helping children and
youth find high ideals and wholesome relationships in church.
Because I am helping to build a
better world by bringing health and knowledge of Christ's abundant life
to needy people of other nations.
So that my church can wisely plan to
meet its expenses by knowing its expected income.
Because my support is needed if my
church is to carry on its program.
Because the services and facilities
of my church are always available to me, my family and friends.
Because I believe in Christ and His
way as the only hope for humanity.
Because this is one way I can
respond to Christ in gratitude and love for all He has done for me.
—taken from the
Oneonta Congregational Church Newsletter.
