We do not take an offering at Calvary Chapel of Hope.
This has been a particular calling from God for us since inception of the church. The reason for this is that we strongly believe that where God guides, God provides. Increase and blessing come from God (1 Corinthians 3:7). God owns everything. He says, “the world is Mine, and all its fullness” (Psalm 50:12). We strongly disagree with “ministries” that emphasize a prosperity gospel. We are more interested in feeding the flock of God than fleecing the flock of God. And so, God has directed us to make a statement of faith and trust in Him to provide by our not taking a formal offering during our services.
We do believe it is God’s will that we should give to ministry. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). We do believe that tithing (i.e. giving a tenth of gross income) is a principle supported by scripture. The patriarchs tithed 400 years before the Law (Genesis 14:20; 28:22). There’s evidence that Jesus tithed or at least supported tithing (Matthew 23:23). Salvation is not dependent upon whether or not you tithe, but it is a good principle to practice.
When a person gives, we encourage them to consider the words of Paul who was inspired to write, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich”
(2 Corinthians 8:9). Later in this context Paul counsels: 2 Corinthians 9:6–15 (NKJV) – 6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work. 9 As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”
10 Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness, 11 while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving through us to God. 12 For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God, 13 while, through the proof of this ministry, they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal sharing with them and all men, 14 and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you. 15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
Based on these words, we encourage you to give prayerfully, graciously, generously and cheerfully, for Jesus has given so much to us!