Giving to God on Credit

Most Christians probably still give financially to their local church by putting cash or a personal check in an offering plate or offering box, but many are giving through automatic bank drafts, debit cards, and credit cards.

The Dallas Morning News discovered that 55% of the 200 local churches they polled already accept debit cards and credit cards. Some churches have added kiosks in their lobbies, thanks to companies like Secure Give.

It seem like only a matter of time before this becomes the norm in most churches. No doubt some will resist, but should they?

Here are some of the possible benefits:

1. It is easy and convenient. Swiping a card or scheduling a “payment” (i.e., gift) is easier than writing out a check or withdrawing cash from the bank.
2. It makes sense. Fewer people are using cash and checks.
3. It promotes consistency. Allowing givers to schedule an automatic weekly or monthly gift will result in more consistent giving—and more money for the church in the down times like summer.
4. It pays. If your card has rewards, now you can make money by giving.

Here are some potential problems:

1. It may make giving less of an act of worship. This is especially true of an automatic bank draft or scheduled credit card payment that the giver will possibly not think about very often.
2. It may contribute to the abuse of credit cards and debt. Is this putting a potential stumbling block in the way of the weak?

Everything can be abused, and neither of the potential problems is insurmountable. Givers who give via cash or check can also do so mindlessly, and many people pay off their entire credit card balance every month.

What do you think? What are some other pros and cons?

Take the polls.

Read more here:

• Sam Hodges at Dallas News: Tithing by credit card? Amen
• Suzanne Hadley at The Line: Offering: Will that be Debit or Credit?
• Rita Healy at Time.com: The ATM in the Church Lobby
• Todd Rhoades at MMI: Church Installs “Giving Kiosks”
• See also dozens of news articles here: Secure Give News

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