Scripture is very clear that believers are to give generously, but it's not explicit that each local church should be the sole beneficiary of our tithes. So if you are a Christ-follower attending The Stone, to the extent that the work of The Austin Stone accomplishes the Biblical purposes of the church as "the hope of the world" (Matt 5:14), we would hope that we are a place where you could, in good conscience, direct the substance of your giving to the purposes of the church in redeeming our community and the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ. As an attender, this is a matter to seek God on, and then obey how He directs you.
Of those who align the mission of their lives with the mission of the church through partnership, however, we do ask that a tithe be given to The Austin Stone. This is because we view partnership as a commitment to be fully dedicated and invested in our mission as a church, both in time and resources. For attenders and partners alike, we desire to see every [KEEP READING]
Among many reasons the scriptures give us for why we should give, one that should move your heart most directly is because it makes us more like Christ. Giving is absolutely essential to following Christ. Take some time to read Luke 18: 18-25 and the last blog post if you doubt this. The rich ruler was actually saddened when Jesus told him to sell his possessions and give to the poor. Jesus knew that that the man's heart was more stirred by what his wealth could afford than it was by the promise of life in the kingdom of God. When we give out of love for Christ, and with a generous heart, it causes many changes within us. Here are a few to think about:
1) It increases our intimacy and directs our attention and heart to Christ. (Matthew 6:21)
2) It increases our character, conforming us to Christ's image as an unselfish giver.
3) It helps us realize the true ownership of ALL of our possessions. (I [KEEP READING]