Restoring Relevance Through Generosity
Across America, countless church buildings sit on prominent corners — yet too many stand unnoticed by the communities around them. Jesus asked, “If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else?” (Matthew 5:47). That question still echoes today: If your church closed its doors tomorrow, would your community notice — or care?
Every faith tradition values giving, but Christian generosity is distinct because it reflects sacrifice. Jesus didn’t just give — He gave everything. That same spirit fueled the early church: “They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need” (Acts 2:45). Unfortunately, this radical generosity has become the exception, not the norm. In many communities, churches have lost influence as needs are met instead by government or nonprofit programs. To regain relevance, we must lead again in compassion — not through programs alone, but through the people who embody Christ’s love.
Relevance begins with curiosity and humility before action. Church leaders can guide their congregations by asking:
About the Community
1. Who is hurting, lacking, or oppressed nearby?
2. What cultural groups live among us, and what are their specific needs?
3. Who is already serving effectively — and how can we come alongside them?
About Community Initiatives
1. What local efforts are struggling that we could strengthen?
2. What needs remain unmet?
3. Where are doors opening for partnership with civic, nonprofit, or faith leaders?
Prayerfully exploring these questions helps align a church’s generosity with genuine needs — ensuring our efforts help rather than harm. For deeper insight, consider ‘Giving Wisely: Killing with Kindness or Empowering Lasting Transformation?’ by Jonathan Martin and ‘When Helping Hurts’ by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert.
Every congregation can find tangible ways to serve through time, talent, and treasure:
Partner with Those Serving the Poor – Identify ministries or nonprofits already helping the homeless or low-income families. One church I know opened its building as an overflow shelter, providing meals, beds, and relationships — a practical and spiritual refuge.
Partner with Local Schools – Build trust with administrators to learn real needs. Some churches fill backpacks for children from low-income homes; others contribute directly to school programs that serve vulnerable students.
Partner with the Neighborhood and City – Attend local meetings, listen, and engage. One congregation launched an annual community cleanup when the city lacked funding. Hundreds of residents participated — members baked cookies, hauled trash, or greeted neighbors — creating goodwill and Gospel opportunities. Another church met with the mayor and mobilized 500 volunteers to repaint thousands of fire hydrants, blessing their entire city.
A colleague once summarized the church’s call to generosity in three words: “Do something!” We cannot meet every need, but inaction is never the answer. When a church takes even small, Spirit-led steps to love its neighbors, it becomes indispensable to its community — a living testimony of Christ’s presence.
If your church disappeared tomorrow, may your city say, “We can’t imagine our community without them.”
Author Bio
Chris McDaniel serves as Chief Revenue Officer at vTECH io a technology and AI solutions company that also equips churches and nonprofits with secure, scalable systems. He is passionate about helping Christian leaders model generosity and restore impact in their communities. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn