Money and giving
My church or other ministries: where should my giving go?
Short answer
Many Christians give first to their local church, then to the poor and to mission. Give where money is handled honestly and openly, and never because someone pressures you.
The Bible gives no list, but it shows a pattern. Those who are taught the word should share good things with the one who teaches them. Churches supported Paul's mission work, and he called their gift a fragrant offering, pleasing to God. Believers also sent help to Christians in need far away.
So a common practice is to give regularly to your local church first, because that is where you are fed, known and cared for. Then give to mercy, helping people in need near and far, and to mission, taking the good news and the Bible to people who don't have them yet.
Before you give to any ministry or organisation, check a few things. Do they say clearly what they believe and what they do? Do they publish their accounts? Who holds the leaders to account? Are they honest about results? Good organisations are glad you asked.
Never give under pressure, out of guilt or for a promised reward. God loves a cheerful giver. Pray about it, decide in advance, and give where you can give gladly.
My verses
Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.
And as you Philippians know, in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving. For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.
So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. This they did, sending their gifts to the elders with Barnabas and Saul.
We hope to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this generous gift. For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men.
Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.