According to what we have: the Gift Array
Christian giving begins in the heart. As Paul writes to the church in Corinth, “the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have” (2 Corinthians 8:12). This powerful reminder affirms that generosity is not about equal amounts, but equal willingness.
Yet many believers still ask: how does the heart know what to give?
Tithing: A Discipline, Not a Default
For some, the answer is clear—tithing. Giving 10% of income is a spiritual discipline that nurtures generosity and commitment. But research tells a different story. The 2011 UK study Giving Insight found that only a third of Christians supported a specific giving target like 5%. The 2020 Anglican Giving Survey didn’t even mention tithing. Without clear guidance, many are left unsure of how to respond generously.
The Gift Array: A Practical and Pastoral Tool
A gift array offers a simple yet powerful solution. Common in charity appeals, it presents a range of suggested donation amounts—£3, £5, £10, or more—so individuals can choose a level that reflects their circumstances, faith, and relationship with their church. It’s not a one-size-fits-all request, but a respectful invitation to consider giving more deeply.
Why not just ask for more?
Some churches try a flat increase—asking everyone to give £4 more per week. Others use a proportional increase—20p for every £1 already given. These methods are simple, but they don’t inspire growth. They treat newcomers and long-standing members the same and don’t invite reflection.
A better way to give
The gift array encourages spiritual reflection. It respects the diversity of financial situations and avoids the impression of a “membership fee.” It opens the door to deeper discipleship, allowing each giver to consider their offering in light of their faith journey.
Don’t be over-cautious in assuming there is no capacity in the congregation to give more. But if you simply cannot find an array that looks and feels right then you must go back to your Plan. If the target is too high adjust the Plan to a produce a lower giving target. Then revisit the Gift Array afresh.
2 Corinthians 8:12
“the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have”
When considering their response, encourage church members to begin at the top of the array and work downwards until they reach a giving level that feels comfortable for them. Our giving response to God’s grace should have an element of sacrificial giving. As King David said, we don’t give to God that which costs us nothing (1 Chron. 21:24). It goes without saying that clergy and lay leaders need to lead by example.