I have observed a debate among some friends, and others that I love, on the subject of whether or not the church should honor those who give generously. Most of my friends urged caution, or advised against any such recognition. But I heard an argument tonight that makes me think it is not only appropriate, but is needed.
Consider this: We recognize those who lead groups of others to reach people, or disciple people, or teach children, or help with administrative gifts. Why, when we recognize, and appreciate all of these gifts, would we fail to extend the same grace to those with the gift of giving?
Those who love to give should not be valued above others because of their giving, but all who exercise their gifts in serving the body should be apreciated. Why are we so afraid to thank those who give?
In principle I don't have a problem with honoring people for giving. But you have to be very careful about how you do it and what exactly you are honoring. The only example that I see of such honor in the New Testament is Jesus' commendation for the widow's mites in Mark 12 and Luke 21. If you honor the "high donors" or those who contribute the largest percentage of the church budget, you may very well be honoring people who are simply doing what they consider to be an obligation or are motivated primarily by tax relief. Yet others may be giving very generously and not even show up on the ledger. That's who Jesus would honor. But it's very hard to make that determination as a church.
Posted by: Matt Davis | February 16, 2009 at 01:40 PM