Explain Bible

What does the Bible say about giving and stewardship?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that all we possess is God’s gift, and believers are called to steward it faithfully by working honestly, giving generously, and trusting God rather than wealth. Ephesians 4:28 joins diligent labor with sharing with those in need, while Acts 20:35 commends the greater blessing of giving. Jesus’ words in Luke 6:38 encourage openhanded mercy, not a formula for personal gain. Paul teaches in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 that generous giving should flow freely and cheerfully, as God loves a cheerful giver. Our giving is shaped above all by Christ, who though rich became poor for us (2 Corinthians 8:9), and by gratitude to the Father, from whom every good gift comes (James 1:17).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Luke 6:38

    "Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be given to you. For with the same measure you measure it will be measured back to you."

  • Ephesians 4:28

    Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have something to give to him who has need.

  • 2 Corinthians 9:6

    Remember this: he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly. He who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

  • Acts 20:35

    In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

  • 2 Corinthians 9:7

    Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9

    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.

  • James 1:17

    Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom can be no variation, nor turning shadow.

Related topics

Go deeper

Ask Explain Bible AI about giving and stewardship and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.

Ask what the Bible says about giving and stewardship