Dave Sherman is Director of Business Development. He’s also the father of two alumnae, served as a baseball coach, was formerly Executive Director, and heads Stewardship Ambassadors, an organization which exists to lead believers to greater generosity. (See the end of the post for more information about Stewardship Ambassadors.)
I want to challenge you, in a very kind way, to read all of these words. Many of us, especially those of us over 60, are amazed at how easily society dismisses the things that may help us grow the most. Technology makes it too easy to click delete or swipe left on our phone. We are inundated with advice, opinions, and news (both fake and real), and yes, we should exercise discernment in the content we allow into our minds. But I would argue that information grounded in biblical truth is worthy of our full attention. My prayer is that this post will help you move a step closer toward God.
Generosity, while present in many cultures and religious traditions, is best represented in Christianity. You may know that the subject of “money” is mentioned 2,350 times in the Bible. Have you ever wondered why it receives so much attention? The passages from Philippians 4:16-18, 3 John 1:3-8, and 1 Timothy 6:17-19 offer rich insights into the nature and importance of generosity, framing it not merely as an act of giving, but as the embodiment of faith, love, and stewardship.
In Philippians 4:16-18, Paul acknowledges the gifts he received from the church of Philippi, noting their early support and continued generosity. This passage highlights generosity as a form of partnership in ministry and a fragrant offering acceptable to God. The Philippians’ willingness to share in Paul’s troubles exemplifies the deep connection between generosity and solidarity, suggesting that true generosity extends beyond transactions to sharing in the lives and burdens of others. While our country’s political leadership disallows both vouchers and deductible contributions to a private school, does that mean that our gifts to those schools are not a “fragrant offering to God”? If we share more, will more be “credited to our account?”
The letter of 3 John 1:3-8 speaks to the joy and encouragement that comes from hearing of fellow believers walking in truth and showing hospitality to traveling missionaries. Some Christians misuse this verse to speak of our children following the ways of Jesus. While children dedicated to a life with Christ is a humbling and wonderful blessing for any parent, the passage actually speaks of discipling Christian community. John commends Gaius for his faithfulness in supporting those who are spreading the gospel, emphasizing that such generosity is a collaboration in the truth. This passage underscores the relational aspect of generosity, where support and hospitality towards others, especially those laboring for the gospel, is seen as a partnership in our divine mission. While both our daughters have graduated, I remember well our intentionality in encouraging, inspiring, and making sacrifices on behalf of our teachers or “missionaries”. We are reminded, in verse 8, “Therefore, we ought to support such people so that we can be coworkers with the truth.” Does this support end with a monthly tuition payment? Does our support include prayer and other resources?
1 Timothy 6:17-19 addresses the wealthy. When we compare Americans to the rest of the world, and Littleton, Coloradans, to the rest of the country, we are all wealthy! Paul instructs the wealthy not to place their hope in uncertain riches but in God. It encourages them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. This exhortation frames generosity as a means of laying up treasures in heaven, suggesting that true wealth is found not in earthly possessions but in the richness of good deeds and generosity. This perspective directly opposes our culture’s contemporary understanding of wealth. Perhaps we should spend a little time reevaluating our own values, and reflect on the eternal impact of generosity in our own lives.
Collectively, these passages paint a multifaceted picture of generosity. It is portrayed as a partnership in ministry and in the struggles of others, a collaboration in the truth of the gospel, and a strategic investment in eternal treasures. Generosity, according to these scriptures, is a core expression of Christian faith and love. It transcends mere acts of giving to embody a lifestyle of openness, hospitality, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others.
In truth, these biblical passages invite believers to a culturally radical commitment to generosity. It is not just about writing checks but instead involves a holistic sharing of our life, resources, and attention to others who are also pursuing God’s mission. This Scripture challenges each of us and our community to reflect on our values, priorities, and the transformative potential of living generously. Our world is saturated in individualism and a scarcity mentality. A biblical call to generosity offers a counter-narrative of abundance, true community, and shared purpose, which points toward a more just, compassionate, and faithful way of living our lives, and most importantly, in a way that honors our Father.
Stewardship Ambassadors is a 501(c)3 organization founded by Dave and his wife Kathleen in 2000. He has always been the Director (and Janitor). They exist to lead believers to greater Generosity. Stewardship Ambassadors have trained over 1500 missionaries to raise financial resources to allow full time and part time workers to focus their lives and time in obedience to the Great Commission. Their training has facilitated the stewardship and gifts of almost $200 million given to worldwide missions, working with missionaries from organizations like OMF International, WorldVenture, Converge International, Adventures in Missions, Bee International, World Gospel Missions, Global Fellowship, Multiply, Steiger International, Missions Door, and others. Collectively, these trained missionaries represent well over 100,000 Christians stewarding God’s entrusted resources towards ministry
