The gospel tells us God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son for us. Our giving is a grateful response to the overwhelming generosity of God (2 Corinthians 8:9).

As God's people at Good Shepherd, we are partners in the task of sharing the gospel. This partnership is expressed through our prayers and our active involvement including our financial support (Philippians 1:3-7).

We have an obligation to provide for those who labour among us and teach us God's word (1 Cor 9). We also have obligation to provide for the needy (James 2).

In the Old Testament God's people were asked to give a tenth of their produce in response to God's generous blessings on them. The New Testament does not stipulate percentages but challenges us with the principles of generosity, partnership, obligation and love.

Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver
2 Corinthians 9:6-7

A tenth is a good starting point when we consider how much we should give. The fundamental question to ponder is: how should I respond to the overwhelming generosity of God?

In the Old Testament the Israelite tithe was directed to those who needed it most - the priests and Levites (who had no other source of income), the poor and needy and for the upkeep of the temple. We see a similar patten in the New Testament:

The one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor...Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.
Galatians 6:6-10

As members of Good Shepherd we share a mission to help all people know, love and live for Jesus. The financial support for this exciting mission (including staff pay and the upkeep of facilities for the mission) comes solely from our members. As such, it's reasonable that a good proportion of members giving should go towards this ministry.

While most Good Shepherd income is directed towards ministry at our church, we give at least 10% to support other mission work in our Diocese, in Australia and around the world.