Luke 16:2 - “So he called him in and said to him, ‘What is this I hear about you?  Give an account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.’” 

OWNERS: When we own something, we can use it however we want.  We get all the benefits from our own property.  If we destroy or use up our own property, we feel the loss.  Most people avoid making decisions that result in the loss or destruction of their own property – people are usually careful with their own belongings.   continue

1 Corinthians 16:1-3 – “Now about the collection for God’s people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.“

The New Testament indicates that we should avoid collecting tithes or offerings in a way that 1) makes people feel pressured; 2) gives an opportunity for wealthier church members to show off; or 3) makes it appear that the church or the pastors are interested mostly in people’s money.  It appears from the Bible that the church in the Apostolic Era did not ask for money or take offerings during their public services.

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