The stewardship mindset says God owns it all and we are only stewards of the resources that God had entrusted to us. This truth affects us in the way we live our lives and how we use our money, possessions, our work, our business, even our own lives.

When resources are limited and our needs ever growing, the concept of stewardship, especially church stewardship, is relevant and significant. We have a deep responsibility for church stewardship.

Stewardship involves all aspects of our lives. It is not just about giving money or tithing; it is about being responsible with what God has given us so as to bring glory and honor to his name and to spread his kingdom.

Stewardship in a church context is being faithful and responsible in the management of all resources that God has given us and has entrusted us to share—that is, the time, talents, material things, as well as the gospel.

Church stewardship is deeply rooted in Scripture. There are various passages, parables, and verses about stewardship in the Bible that provides valuable insights into its importance in our lives. Here are some of them:

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” These verses encourages believers to use their diverse gifts in service to one another, reflecting the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:10)

Looking at him, Jesus felt a love for him and said to him, “One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (Mark 10:21)

In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35)

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. (1 Corinthians 4:1–2)

What are the principles behind stewardship? According to Breeze Church management, here are the tenets that supports stewardship: First is, God owns everything. Our time, talents, abilities, etc. comes from God. We don’t own these resources; rather, we are merely stewards of them, responsible of managing them according to God’s will. Second, stewardship is an act of worship. When we use the gifts that God gave us to bless others, we are showing our gratitude and love for God. Third, we are to faithfully manage the resources that God has entrusted to us—that is, being responsible our time, talents, and possessions.

Healthy church stewardship leads to spiritual growth as the people grows closer to God, stronger church as it experiences spiritual vitality, deeper faith for the church members, and, lastly, more resources are unleashed that leads to greater kingdom impact.

Knowing the profound impact of church stewardship, how can the church teach its members to become faithful stewards? Tithe.ly offers these few suggestions to encourage stewardship.

1. Instill a culture of generosity in the church by offering practical classes on stewardship, by pointing to Scripture, by sharing testimonies, and, for the church leaders, modelling generosity.
2. Emphasize humility and joy as core elements of stewardship.
3. Encourage cheerful givers, as apostle Paul says in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
4. Broaden the scope of stewardship through a holistic approach to stewardship. This means going beyond than just giving financial support but contributing time, talent, resources, etc. to the church’s life and mission.
5. Emphasize transparency in the decision-making processes of the church, which builds (or rebuilds) trust, which then fosters a healthier stewardship culture.
6. Acknowledging each member’s contribution (i.e., financial or otherwise) strengthens the church community.
7. Initiating stewardship campaign or stewardship workshop is a great way to extend the collection plate beyond the weekend services.

Fostering a stewardship culture within the church means nurturing a community where giving is an expression of faith and a reflection of one’s commitment to the mission of Christ. The church must return to the roots of what stewardship truly means—and that is, wisely using what we have been entrusted with for the glory of God.

Sources:

Breeze. “Church Stewardship: Managing God’s Resources Wisely. “ Accessed June 30, 2024. https://www.breezechms.com/blog/stewardship-church.

Stewardship. “Good Financial Management Helps Churches Avoid Dangers.” Accessed June 30, 2024. https://www.stewardship.org.uk/blogs/good-financial-management-helps-churches-avoid-dangers.

Vanco. “Stewardship in the Bible: Guiding Church Giving and Finances.” Last modified  January 30, 2024. https://www.vancopayments.com/egiving/blog/stewardship-in-the-bible.