The Joy of Giving: Biblical Principles For Generosity Among Contemporary Christians and Non-Christians

Generosity has long been a vital force in sustaining human relationships and fostering community well-being. Imagine a society, a church, or an organization where acts of giving — whether through philanthropy, benevolent contributions, altruistic offerings, or financial support — form the foundation of communal life. In such a setting, the needy would not feel isolated or dishonored. Instead, a spirit of joy and love would flourish among people. Generosity has the power to ignite a chain reaction of goodwill, transforming individuals, communities, and entire societies.

Despite its undeniable importance, generosity in many contemporary Christian communities seems to be declining. Unlike the first-century church, where believers freely shared their possessions, many churches today struggle with financial stewardship, declining charitable giving, and an increasing sense of individualism. The early Christians, as recorded in Acts, “had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all as anyone had need” (Acts 2:44–45, NKJV). This spirit of selfless giving ensured that no one lacked, fostering unity and devotion to God. However, in the modern church, giving is often viewed as an obligation rather than an expression of joy and communal responsibility.

Why has this shift occurred? What factors contribute to the decline of generosity in Christian communities? Scholars have extensively explored the motivations and benefits of giving. Studies by Herzog and Price, published in American journals, examine who gives and why, highlighting how both givers and recipients benefit from acts of generosity. Research shows that giving enhances personal well-being, strengthens social bonds, and fosters a sense of purpose. Furthermore, scholars have identified cultural, psychological, and economic influences that shape giving behaviors across different societies.

While much of the existing research focuses on Christian perspectives, generosity is not exclusive to Christianity. Many religious traditions and secular philosophies emphasize benevolence as a moral duty and a means of promoting social harmony. Despite these insights, there is still a gap in research exploring how biblical principles of generosity can be applied to both Christian and non-Christian contexts in today’s world. Most studies either focus solely on Christian giving or examine generosity from a secular philanthropic perspective. This research aims to bridge that gap by considering both views, recognizing that the joy of giving is a universal principle that transcends religious boundaries.

When it comes to giving, both in the church and outside of it, it is our responsibility as Christians to help others understand why it is an essential act. The very word “giving” conveys a sense of joy and fulfillment, bringing happiness into the lives of others. Therefore, it is our duty to share this message widely and emphasize why giving is a fundamental responsibility for both Christians and non-Christians.

Although many preachers and motivational speakers, both on social media and in churches, strive to explain why every individual should give, there is still a need for collective effort in raising awareness about this important issue. I would like to begin this project by examining the This project will examine the principles of giving from the Old Testament to the New Testament, highlighting key teachings that can guide Christians today in giving generously.

In the Old Testament, God was very strict with the Israelites regarding their giving, setting clear instructions and expectations. There came a point when the Israelites attempted to cheat and rob the Almighty God of their tithe. In the book of Malachi, God made them realize that they had defrauded Him. He posed several questions to make them aware of their failure in tithing. He asked, “Can a man rob God?” Astonished, they responded by asking how they had robbed Him. God replied that they had done so through their failure to give tithes and offerings meant to support the Levites and His work. As a result, He placed a curse on them (Malachi 3:8–10, KJV).

This shows that whatever the Israelites had was given by God, and they were expected to give Him His share. Tithing was one-tenth of an Israelite’s produce from the ground or livestock — not money — yet it was still classified as an offering to the Lord.

If we examine the scriptures carefully, we learn that in the Old Testament, when the Levites received tithes, they were also required to give a tithe from what they received. God used these principles to provide for the needy. Let’s look closely at the scriptures to uncover more about this truth.

In the book of Numbers, the Lord spoke to Moses and instructed him to speak to the Levites, saying:

“When you receive from the children of Israel the tithes that I have given you as your inheritance, you must also offer a heave offering to the Lord — a tenth of the tithe. This heave offering shall be considered as though it were the grain from the threshing floor and the fullness of the winepress. In the same way, you shall offer a heave offering to the Lord from all the tithes you receive from the children of Israel, and you shall present the Lord’s heave offering to Aaron the priest.” (Numbers 18:26–28) The heave offering was due to the Lord, with the best and most consecrated portion set aside. God also instructed Moses to tell the Levites:

“When you have set aside the best portion, the remainder shall belong to the Levites as their provision, just as the produce of the threshing floor and the winepress. You and your households may eat it anywhere, for it is your reward for serving in the tabernacle of meeting. You will bear no sin for consuming it, provided you have set aside the best portion. However, you must not desecrate the holy gifts of the children of Israel, lest you die.” (Numbers 18:25–32)

In the Messianic age, giving was not only about the portion given but also about its purpose — to provide for the needy among God’s people and the nation as a whole. It brought joy to those who had no hope at the time, particularly the Levites, who were denied an inheritance in the land of Canaan, unlike the other tribes. The Levites were able to sustain themselves through the giving of tithes, which supported their livelihood.

According to Kindler, fifty quotes from philosophers around the world on the topic of giving were listed on his blog. Highlighting and elaborating on one of these quotes before diving into the New Testament’s teachings on giving — both by Christians and non-Christians — John D. Rockefeller Jr. said, “Think of giving not as a duty, but as a privilege.”

This statement by Rockefeller captures the true essence of giving, as it shifts a person’s mindset from seeing giving as an obligation to embracing it as an opportunity. Rather than viewing giving as a burden in societies or churches, people should see it as a chance to bless the needy and make a meaningful impact in others’ lives.

Rockefeller’s quote offers two important insights. First, giving is indeed a duty — a responsibility for those who have been blessed — encouraging everyone to contribute to changing others’ lives. Second, giving is also a privilege, allowing the giver to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from helping those in need. Giving not only changes the lives of those in need but also offers opportunities for them to thrive. When you view giving as a privilege, it helps you find joy in helping others. In fact, Rockefeller’s quote provides valuable insights on giving — both for Christians and non-Christians — and serves as an inspiration to those who practice generosity.

Another quote from the same blog by Aesop states, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” This quote encourages us to reconsider the idea that we must accumulate wealth or possessions before helping others. It reminds us that even the smallest gesture — a helping hand, a kind word, or a simple smile — can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.

Aesop’s words also highlight that giving comes in many forms. It can be as simple as holding the door for someone, guiding a stranger who is lost, or listening attentively when someone needs to talk. Imagine helping someone with your time or a small act of kindness and witnessing the smile it brings to their face — how would that make you feel? There is indeed joy in giving.

On the Day of Pentecost, when the church began in Jerusalem, it was recorded that the disciples continued in fellowship. Luke wrote:

“And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:42)

In this verse, the word “fellowship” is translated from the Greek word koinonia, which means sharing, partnership, or communion (James Strong, 1641). This implies that the first-century Christians were actively giving to support the church.

Further in the chapter, the scriptures explain that all who believed were together and had all things in common. They sold their possessions and goods and divided them among all, according to each person’s need. This teaches us the importance of sharing possessions among Christians.

When a Christian has more than enough to survive, they are encouraged to share with those in need within the church. The early Christians gave selflessly, without hesitation or second-guessing their actions. Their generosity flowed naturally from a spirit of unity and love. The early Christians did not give with the expectation of receiving something in return from those in need. Luke recorded Jesus’ words to Theophilus:

“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Luke 6:38)

Though this message was directed to Theophilus, it applies to all Christians, encouraging them to embrace a spirit of generosity in their daily lives.

Paul also emphasized the importance of giving in his letters to the Christians in Corinth. In 2 Corinthians 8:1–4, he spoke about the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia. Despite going through severe trials and extreme poverty, their joy overflowed into rich generosity. Paul testified that they gave according to their means — and even beyond their means — freely and willingly. They urgently pleaded with Paul to accept their gift and allow them to share in the ministry to the saints.

This shows that the churches in Macedonia, including those in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea, supported Paul’s work and contributed to the kingdom of God. Their giving is often referred to as “grace giving,” meaning they gave freely and voluntarily. Their generosity enabled Paul to embark on his missionary journey to Jerusalem, not only to minister to the saints but also to support the poor there (Romans 15:25–26).

The Philippian church, in particular, stood out for its consistent financial support. Despite their poverty, they repeatedly sent aid to Paul — even when he was in Thessalonica — helping him more than once during his time of need (Philippians 4:16).

This demonstrates that the Philippians were spiritually rich in faith and generosity. Their giving was not based on their material wealth but on their steadfast belief in supporting God’s work. Their example serves as a powerful inspiration for Christians today, showing that true generosity comes from the heart, regardless of one’s financial situation.

According to Kioulachoglou, when Paul visited Jerusalem for the last time, he was imprisoned, but his main purpose for the trip was to deliver the gift he had received from the churches in Macedonia to support the poor in Jerusalem. Paul himself stated, “After many years, I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation, in the midst of which some Jews from Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with a mob nor with tumult” (Acts 24:11).

These alms and offerings were contributions from believers in Achaia (Corinth) and the churches in Macedonia, intended to help the poor saints in Jerusalem. Paul’s focus was clear — ensuring that the most vulnerable among the believers received the support they needed.

Helping the poor in the first-century church of Christ had a profound impact, strengthening the bonds within the Christian community. The apostles and other believers consistently encouraged one another to engage in acts of generosity. James, Peter, and John even advised Paul to always remember the poor, reinforcing the importance of giving (Galatians 2:10).

When we closely examine children’s attitudes toward giving, we notice that they naturally love to receive gifts from parents, friends, and others. Often, they respond with a smile and a simple “thank you,” and their affection for the giver grows. Interestingly, even if they initially dislike the person giving the gift, their attitude tends to shift after receiving something — they start to show love and appreciation.

Why does this happen? What makes children, and even adults, respond so positively to acts of giving?

In the book of Acts, Luke recorded the words of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). This principle highlights the joy and fulfillment that come from helping others.

In our daily lives — on the streets, in our congregations, and within our communities — giving brings not only joy to those who receive but also a sense of purpose and happiness to the giver. When a church actively gives to those in need and supports the community in which it is planted, it creates an atmosphere of kindness and goodwill. Such acts of generosity build trust, foster relationships, and change how people perceive the church, inspiring others to embrace the same spirit of giving. In the first letter of Paul to the church of Christ in Corinth, Paul taught them how and why they should give. He told them to give every Sunday as they prospered (1 Corinthians 16:1–2). He also explained that this instruction was given to many churches in the province of Galatia. Paul consistently gathered these gifts and distributed them among poor Christian brothers and sisters who were in need. This shows that giving is a sacrificial part of the Lord’s church, and every Christian is obliged under the Christian faith to give.

Since giving is a command from the Lord, a good giver must always realize that they are blessed because, as Jesus said, there is more blessing in giving than in receiving. These blessings may come in the form of good health, financial provision, or love from God. Giving within congregations has played a major role in evangelism and the work of the church. Missionaries, preachers, and those willing to serve often rely on these contributions to support themselves in their work for Christ. Interestingly, God did not specify an exact amount to give but encouraged believers to give from the heart — freely and willingly — to bring joy and change to others’ lives (Stephen J. Bell).

On several occasions, many churches have united to present gifts to charity homes and the needy, especially in the United States of America, to alleviate poverty. This practice draws inspiration from the first-century church of Christ, which was a prominent charitable agency in the Western world. Many charitable organizations today prefer to channel their donations through the church, acknowledging its long-standing role in supporting the less fortunate.

However, some non-believers criticize churches that do not support the needy yet continue to collect offerings every Sunday. Helping the poor was not only a benefit to those in need but also to the giver. Jesus commanded His disciples to love God with all their hearts, souls, and minds and to love their neighbors as themselves (Matthew 22:37–39). This commandment was not intended to cause loss for the giver but to cultivate love and generate divine blessings and a good reputation.

Non-Christian organizations that engage in charity work may be described as practicing “scientific charity.” Though they may not always acknowledge the religious roots of giving, their actions still align with the divine command to make the world a better place. Thus, both the church and other charitable organizations are, knowingly or unknowingly, fulfilling God’s will by helping those in need (Bishop 371).

Islam also emphasizes the importance of giving. A common saying among Muslims is that a poor Muslim cannot be a good Muslim, implying that wealthy Muslims must use their resources to assist the poor. Prominent Muslim politician Callede H.S. Ismail once criticized wealthy Muslims for wasting money on lavish ceremonies while their fellow Muslims struggled in poverty. He urged them to redirect their wealth to support those in need (Osella 10).

The essence of giving in Islam is similar to that in Christianity. Muslims are taught to share their blessings with others, and this sense of charity often makes it easier for a Muslim who converts to Christianity to embrace the Christian principle of giving. Both religions highlight the importance of loving one’s neighbor — a principle Jesus emphasized when He declared the greatest commandments: to love God and to love others (Mark 12:29–31).

Even the Quran acknowledges the Bible’s authority in certain matters, with Surat Yunus 10:94 suggesting that those with doubts about revelations should consult the Bible. This further affirms the shared value of giving across religious boundaries. Atheists, too, often run charitable organizations, proving that the impulse to help others is a universal human trait rooted in divine principles.

Does giving truly bring blessings in return? According to the Bible and many prominent figures, the answer is yes. Research also supports this idea. A 2002 survey by the National Opinion Research Center’s General Social Survey found that 43% of blood donors — those who gave to help patients — reported being the happiest people on earth, compared to only 29% of non-donors. Many of these donors returned to hospitals two or three times a year to give blood, driven by the joy they experienced from helping others.

Theresa Lloyd’s book on charitable motivations in the United Kingdom further supports this concept. She found that wealthy individuals and charitable organizations consistently reported feeling a sense of responsibility and happiness through their giving. While some may receive material rewards, they often find deeper fulfillment in knowing they are positively impacting their communities (Lloyd and Lloyd 3).

After examining Christian and non-Christian perspectives on giving, it is evident that giving is a divine command. Christians are instructed to give to help the poor, as God commanded in both the Old and New Testaments. During the Messianic age, tithes were collected to support the Levites and the poor among the Israelites.

In modern times, giving transcends religious boundaries, with non-Christian organizations and even atheists actively participating in charitable work. This universal spirit of generosity reflects God’s command to love and support one another.

Ultimately, giving should come from a place of love — both within the church and beyond. As Jesus taught in Luke 6:38, “Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Therefore, every human being, regardless of religion or background, is called to give, making the world a better place for all.

By : Peter Polley Ngoah. For more info. WhatsAPP : +233591056325