Giving FAQS
WHY SHOULD I GIVE MONEY TO THE CHURCH?
To put it simply, we choose to give because we believe God gives first, gives the most, and gives the best.
Many Christians make the mistake of thinking that we are giving to God a portion of what is ours. In truth, the tithe is not ours to give to God, but is God's for us to give back. We consider it a privilege to have it to give back to Him as it represents a tangible acknowledgement that everything we have belongs to Him. 2 Corinthians 9:7 | 2 Corinthians 9:10-11
WHAT ARE MY GIVING DOLLARS USED FOR?
Your gifts are used to fund God's work through the ministry of Eastpointe Christian Church. Eastpointe is an independent, non-denominational church and as such, does not receive any outside funding. We are supported solely through the generosity of the members and attenders of our church. This includes the employment of church staff, facility upkeep and management, local and global missions, as well as our weekly and yearly programming of activities and events. 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 | 1 Timothy 5:17-18 | 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TITHE AND AN OFFERING?
There is a clear, biblical difference between tithes and offerings. The Bible mentions both of them separately, even though the Lord required both to be brought to Him. For an individual, a tithe is the tenth (10%) of all the income that God provides. For a business owner, total income would be the profit or net earnings from the business.
Offerings are gifts given to God above the tithe. There are people who God has blessed financially who may be able to give 20%, 30% or even more of their income and still live comfortably. Luke 11:42 | Malachi 3:10 | Proverbs 11:24 | Proverbs 3:9 | Romans 12:8
SHOULD I TITHE ON MY NET OR GROSS EARNINGS?
In Proverbs 3:9-10, God's Word instructs us to give Him the first and best part of the income He has blessed us with. If we tithe on our "net" we are putting other expenses and deductions above the tithe and not making God first in our giving or in our finances.
WHAT IF WE BELIEVE WE CANNOT AFFORD TO TITHE RIGHT NOW?
It is when we are having financial struggles that we cannot afford not to tithe. During difficult economic times, many people think that if they give they may not be able to pay their rent, purchase gas for their vehicle or even buy groceries for the week. It is a struggle certainly, but we also believe that God is bigger than our financial struggles. It is a good time to ask ourselves, "Are we trusting in our abilities or in God?"
For most people, we would simply challenge you to reevaluate your priorities. Many of us, as Americans, are spending beyond our means in many areas, leaving us little wiggle room. What we would suggest is that you evaluate what you are spending your money on and ask yourself if you are living as though all you have belongs to God.
God is always faithful to take care of us. No matter what we are currently experiencing financially, God promises to meet all of our actual needs. 2 Corinthians 9:6 • Philippians 4:19
IS IT DIFFICULT TO SET UP ONLINE GIVING?
No, it's simple and straightforward. Simply log on to Eastpointe CONNECT, a user-friendly website where you can set up your online account. If you have any questions about your online giving account, you can contact the church office online or call 614.501.8594.
IS GIVING ONLINE SECURE?
Yes. It is the policy of Eastpointe to diligently protect your personal privacy. Online giving transactions are processed with BluePay Payment Processing Solutions, which employs state-of-the-art security and privacy. Online giving at Eastpointe is as safe as using online bill pay with your bank.
IS MY ONLINE GIVING INFORMATION KEPT PRIVATE?
The online giving registration form requires you to give us contact information (like your name and e-mail address). The information you give to us through our online giving system is for the sole purpose of processing your contribution. We do not sell or give away your private information for any reason.
All contributions to Eastpointe are income tax deductible and are made with the understanding that Eastpointe has complete discretion and control over the use of all donated funds. We are a registered non-profit organization.