Summary of the Anabaptist view of giving

The Anabaptist view of tithes and offerings can be understood in the context of their broader theological and ecclesiological beliefs. Anabaptists, who emerged during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, hold distinct beliefs regarding the church, community, and personal discipleship, which influence their perspective on tithes and offerings. Here are some key aspects of the Anabaptist view:

Voluntary Giving:
Anabaptists emphasize voluntary giving rather than a mandatory tithe. They believe that offerings should come from a willing heart, reflecting a personal decision rather than an obligation. This approach aligns with their emphasis on personal faith and discipleship.

Community and Mutual Aid:
The Anabaptist tradition places a strong emphasis on community and mutual aid. Offerings and contributions are often directed towards supporting members of the community in need, funding communal projects, and ensuring that no one within the community lacks basic “necessities”. This practice stems from their commitment to living out the teachings of Jesus regarding love and care for one another.

Separation from State and Institutional Church Practices:
Historically, Anabaptists rejected the practices of state churches, including compulsory tithing. They sought to establish a clear separation between church and state and thus opposed the idea of tithes being enforced by civil authorities or institutional churches. (this is not an issue in Australia)

Stewardship and Simplicity:
Anabaptists advocate for a simple lifestyle and therefore a responsible stewardship of resources. They believe that Christians are stewards of God’s resources and should use them wisely and generously to support the mission of God’s church and care for the poor.

Biblical Basis:
While recognizing the Old Testament practice of tithing, Anabaptists often point to the New Testament teachings, such as those found in 2 Corinthians 9:7 (“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver”) to support their view that giving should be cheerful and voluntary.
Non-Material Contributions:

In addition to financial contributions, Anabaptists value non-material offerings such as time, talents, and service. They encourage members to contribute to the community in various ways, reflecting a holistic approach to stewardship.

Overall, the Anabaptist view of tithes and offerings is rooted in their broader theological principles of voluntary giving, community support, separation from institutional mandates, simplicity, and holistic stewardship. These principles guide their practices and attitudes towards financial contributions within the church community.