Some FAQs on Giving
In the Vineyard, we believe the local church is Gods primary agent for advancing His Kingdom in this world. The local church is called to showcase Gods new humanity, cutting across the dividing lines of ethnicity, age, gender, and background.
Every Christian is part Jesus’ universal church. As we read the New Testament, the concept of the local church is inescapable. About 95% of the references to ekklesia (Greek for “church”) are about local, visible, and organised expressions of the world-wide church. The book of Acts records the founding of local churches.
We believe that “the local church is the hope of the world” and therefore should be the focal point for the first portion of our giving (e.g., our tithe).
God may also lead us to give over and above our regular giving to other great causes.
The pastoral staff, along with many others, give generously from their income to the church.
Tithing existed before the law was given (Genesis 1 4: 18-21). The Christian church has historically followed this pattern, not as a legalistic edict, but rather a wonderful and helpful place that serves as a foundation for generous God centred lifestyle.
As someone starts a journey of giving, a tithe can seem a long way off. Someone once said that “a journey of a thousand miles starts with a first step”. Wherever you are right now with financial giving, prayerfully take a step towards a more generous future.
Whilst for some a tithe can seem a long way off, for others it can be an excuse that limits generosity! Jesus said that our righteousness should “surpass that of the Pharisees” (Matt. 5:20). Those religious people of Jesus’ day were tithers. In the light of what Jesus has done for us, we believe that Spirit-led people will be led to give at least as generously as the Pharisees.
Jesus teaches (Matt 6: 1-4) that we should not boast about our giving and this is the context for Him saying ”do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing”. This is sometimes used to say that giving should be anonymous. If it was about this, Jesus would be contradicting His own teaching by drawing attention to the widow’s offering (Luke 21 : 1-4). The issue Jesus is addressing in Matt. 6 is regarding boasting about our giving to others. It’s important that the church knows who is giving because as a charity we can claim the tax back.
1. To experience joy as we reflect Gods nature
God is a generous giver and anytime we imitate Him, we connect into the very life and being of God.
2. To show gratitude to God
God has blessed us in so many ways. Giving is a primary way of saying “thank you” for what He has given us.
3. To participate in all the ministries of the church
Our church is growing and has a wide range of ministries. It’s impossible to be physically involved in them all, but we can participate in them all through giving.
4. To demonstrate that what we have is entrusted to us
Either we view our money as ours (secular world view) or we view it as Gods (Biblical world view). Giving acknowledges that all we have has come from God even if only a portion is given back to Him.
5. To express our love and support of the church’s vision
Financial giving is not the only way to support a church, but it is a major way to show what we believe in and love. It’s a blessing to give beyond ourselves.
6. To experience greater freedom from financial anxiety
People who hold tightly to their money are so often held captive to financial concerns. Opening our hands in giving opens our hearts to greater freedom in financial matters and trusting God to provide for us.
7. To pay for the work of the church that we belong to
It does seem amazing that the church is moving the kingdom forward, like feeding the poor, conducting our Sunday services, running many midweek activities, supporting those in our local community and these things all need to be paid for. We have always held to the view that if you are visiting our house, you are our guest, however if you live in our house then there is an expectation (if you are able to) to contribute. If you call Vineyard25 your spiritual home, then we would ask that you prayerfully consider contributing through a tithe.
8. To position ourselves for Gods provision and protection
In Malachi 3, God says we’re to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse” to Him. The modern version of the storehouse is the local church. God invites us to test Him in this, with a promise that He will protect us and provide for us, opening up “the floodgates of heaven”. This is the only time in the bible that God suggests that we test Him.
9. To store up treasure in heaven
Jesus says we’re to store up treasure in heaven rather than here on earth (Matthew 6: 19-21). Those who give toward the work of Gods Kingdom are having an eternal impact.
10. It feels great to give!
Paul recalls these words of Jesus – “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). In fact, giving is good for you – studies have shown that givers are less stressed, have better mental health, happier marriages and live longer!
How should I give?
We believe that giving should be a joyful act and not done unwillingly or begrudgingly. It’s also a vital discipleship habit and so we encourage everyone in the church to commit to and grow in generous giving. Here are some good ways to give.
Standing Order
This is our favourite way because there are no charges, so the church receives the full amount you give. It’s simple to set up a standing order through your on-line banking the churches details can be obtained by emailing .
Online Banking
One-off gifts can be made via the giving link on the church’s website “or clicking here” or you can get our account details by emailing .
Gift Aid
If you are a UK taxpayer please do complete a Gift Aid declaration. This enables the church to reclaim basic rate tax on the gifts you make. This amounts to an extra £25 on every £100 given . Simply complete the declaration and hand it to any of the pastors on a Sunday morning or email it to .
Need more information?
No problem! Just get in touch and we’ll answer any questions you may have.