Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream

by David Platt

First, spend your money on something that is gospel centered. There are many organizations aimed at serving specific needs in the world, but people’s greatest need in the world is Christ. To meet people’s temporary physical needs apart from serving their eternal spiritual need misses the point of holistic biblical giving. Second, and related to this, give in a way that is church focused. We will consider this in more depth in a moment, but suffice it to say here that it is not wise to bypass God’s primary agent for bringing redemption to the world in an effort to meet the needs of the world. His primary agent is the church. Third, give to a specific, tangible need. For example, if you are trying to sacrifice your money generally “to give to the poor,” then you will lack a face on the need that reminds you why you must sacrifice to give. Related to this, give to someone or something you can personally serve alongside. The more you are involved with touching need personally, the more you will demonstrate the gospel to people authentically. So it’s best to connect your giving to your going. Finally, give to someone or something you can trust.