Bible study explores missional stewardship

Being good stewards of all that God has blessed us with is one of our callings as Christians. But what does that mean for our everyday lives, both in our faith communities and as individuals? How can we be the best stewards of God’s gift of creation and our individual blessings of time, talents and ‘treasure’ or finances?

The LCANZ’s Congregation Life Hub now features a four-part Bible study around the theme of ‘mission-shaped stewardship’. This study is designed for congregations to use to explore the biblical concept and practice of stewardship. It culminates in the practical exercise of filling out a personal giving plan, which aims to encourage and empower Christian stewardship, generosity, and intentional giving.

WHAT’S A PERSONAL GIVING PLAN?

A personal giving plan is designed to accompany the ‘mission-shaped stewardship’ Bible studies. Experiences across some LCA congregations that have used it suggest it is a highly effective tool for congregational teaching and action around Christian generosity, according to Pastor Nathan Hedt.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

After completing the stewardship Bible study series, individuals or couples may choose to prayerfully fill in a personal giving plan slip with a secret pledge. ‘This helps to prepare your heart and actions in the matter of Christian generosity’, Pastor Nathan says. ‘The contents of this pledge are between you and God, by the leading of the Holy Spirit.’ Pledges are placed in a sealed, self-addressed envelope and presented in the church’s offering. The envelopes remain sealed and are returned to the giver to help them put Christian generosity into practice. ‘The secret to its effectiveness is that it is intentional but not coercive – no-one else sees this but the person (or couple) who fills it in’, Pastor Nathan says.

You can access the Mission-Shaped Stewardship Bible study series and Personal Giving Plan online at www.lca.org.au/giving/#missional-stewardship