The term “church coffers” refers to the finances and monetary funds of a church. Specifically, it is talking about the money that a church receives through donations, tithes, and offerings from its members and attendees. This money is then used by the church leadership to cover operating costs, staff salaries, benevolence ministries, missions support, building maintenance, and other expenses related to the programs and ministries of the church.
The Bible has a lot to say about money and giving when it comes to supporting the work of ministry. Here are some key biblical principles related to church coffers:
Giving is an act of worship and obedience
In the Old Testament, the Israelites were commanded to bring the first and best portion of their harvest as offerings to the Lord (Exodus 23:19). Giving was an act of worship and recognition that all they had belonged to God. In the New Testament, Christians are urged to give cheerfully, willingly, generously and in response to God’s grace (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Our giving demonstrates that God is first in our lives.
Giving supports ministry work
In the early church, offerings collected enabled the apostles to continue preaching the gospel and caring for the needs of fellow believers (Philippians 4:15-18). Paul thanked the Philippian church for supporting his ministry financially. Our giving today allows pastors, missionaries and ministries to serve and bless others in Jesus’ name.
Much is required from those given much
Jesus taught that “everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required” (Luke 12:48). Those blessed with resources and abilities are expected to use them generously for God’s glory. Churches in affluent communities may have more ability to give and thus fund larger ministries.
Give willingly, not under compulsion
Paul told the Corinthians that “each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion” (2 Corinthians 9:7). God cares more about the attitude of our heart than the amount we give. Tithing was commanded under the Old Covenant, but New Testament believers are free to give as they determine, not out of obligation.
Generous giving brings blessings
The Bible connect generous giving with blessings from God. As Paul wrote, “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). When we care for God’s church, He promises to care for us. Malachi 3:10 says God will “open the windows of heaven and pour down blessing” when His people bring tithes and offerings.
Giving should be joyful, willing and eager
We are encouraged to give not out of reluctance, regret or a sense of guilt, but cheerfully and eagerly as an act of worship. Paul said the Macedonian churches gave generously in the midst of their poverty, begging earnestly for the privilege of contributing (2 Corinthians 8:3-4). God’s pleasure is in the attitude of our hearts as we give.
Money should be handled with accountability
Since church offerings are given to God’s work, they should be handled with integrity. Paul took steps to avoid impropriety in collection and administration of money (2 Corinthians 8:18-21). Church finances should be overseen by appointed servants with sound reputation.
Sowing generously leads to reaping generously
Paul encouraged the Corinthians that “whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully” (2 Corinthians 9:6). When we generously support God’s work, He promises we will be enriched in every way for more generosity (2 Corinthians 9:11).
Giving is an investment in eternity
Jesus told His followers to “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” by using worldly wealth for eternal purposes (Matthew 6:19-21). When we fund ministry work on earth, our rewards will carry over into heaven. Our giving advances God’s kingdom and brings Him glory.
Churches should operate with transparency
Since churches utilize public donations, their spending should be open to accountability. Responsible churches have annual audits, oversight committees and clear policies on use of funds. Transparency increases trust and reassures members that offerings are handled appropriately.
Giving should come from income, not debt
The Bible warns against going into debt needlessly (Proverbs 22:7). Christians should limit spending and live below their means in order to have resources to give freely (2 Corinthians 8:13-15). Taking on debt to fund offerings is unwise and shows a lack of faith in God’s provision.
Giving demonstrates where your heart is
Jesus said “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). What we do with our money shows what has our devotion. Regular giving to your local church indicates its ministry has priority in your life and you want to see it flourish.
Everything belongs to God
Since God owns everything, we are simply stewards entrusted with resources for a time (Psalm 24:1, Haggai 2:8). This temporary world is not our home. Our use of money and possessions should focus on spiritual investments, not materialism (Matthew 6:19-21).
Giving demonstrates trust in God’s provision
When believers give generously, they show confidence that God will continue providing for their needs. Paul said God would “supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness” (2 Corinthians 9:10). We can’t out-give God!
Churches should use wisdom with funds
While generous giving is always encouraged, church leaders also have a responsibility to use money wisely. Offerings should be spent on pursuits that advance God’s purposes. Wastefulness, extravagance and frivolous spending have no place in God’s house.
In summary, the “church coffers” referred to in the Bible pertain to all the monetary donations and income received by a church for the purpose of funding ministry work. Biblical principles on giving emphasize cheerful generosity, wise financial stewardship, ethical accountability and a focus on eternal priorities. Our heart attitude when giving matters greatly to God.