Why They Were Liberal

The early church was liberal in their giving. They most certainly were not liberal like some today who want to change the doctrine and church of Christ to accommodate the denominations. But they gave freely of their means in support of the cause of Christ.

Paul said the Macedonians first gave themselves. One who has truly given himself to the Lord will find liberal giving of his means a natural. They realized what they had was not their own since all things belong to God and they were merely temporary caretakers of that which had placed in their trust and care. They knew they would someday give an account for what they did.

God's ownership and our stewardship are two things repeatedly affirmed in Scripture. When we realize this we will also give as prospered, freely, liberally, cheerfully as God would have us do..