Yesterday at church a brother gave the contribution message, in which he stated, “I won’t go to hell if I don’t give anything to this collection.” And he gave his reason for not giving: “I want my money.” I couldn’t think of any scripture to refute him. Yet I know, from talking with him privately, that he hasn’t given contribution for a year or two. He’s in debt, yet manages to find money to eat out at restaurants. Worse, he’s a leader in the church, and has been a Christian a long time. This was bothering me so much, I called him out on it. I would be impressed if he gave a small amount each week. (Perhaps it is pride that keeps him from giving even a dollar?) What say you? — Anon.
I am unable to analyze the problem, or understand the motives of this brother, from a distance—especially since I don’t know your local congregation. And besides, I live 4000 miles away. But if I’m reading you correctly, and you aren’t being too hard on him, then I would probably agree. There is a problem. That is, not giving might or not might not be a sign of a deeper issue.
Some people are dirt poor—in no position to give, or to give only a little, like the impoverished widow of Mark 12. Others, however, are stingy and selfish. We are all different, and God sees the heart. Yet if someone can give and refuses to give, this may be a sign of a deeper issue. There’s a lot of material at the website on this topic. For example, see Q&A 405.
