Support the Ministry

Giving as Worship, Not Obligation

At The Avenue Village NZ, we believe that giving is an act of worship, flowing from gratitude to God, not a requirement for acceptance, membership, or blessing.

The gospel we proclaim is not bought, earned, or sustained by money. Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Therefore, giving is never a means to gain favor with God, but a response of thankfulness to what He has already done.

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

(2 Corinthians 9:7)

Why We Give

Scripture teaches that God uses the willing generosity of His people to support the ordinary work of the church, such as gathering for worship, teaching the Word, prayer, discipleship, hospitality, and care for others.

Giving helps sustain:

• The ministry of the local church
• Regular gatherings and Bible studies
• Training and discipleship
• Hospitality and fellowship
• Outreach and church-planting efforts

At the same time, we affirm that God Himself is our provider, and the church ultimately depends on Him, not on human giving.

“Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”

(Psalm 127:1)

Voluntary Pastoral Service

As a matter of conscience and conviction, the pastors and elders of The Avenue Village NZ serve voluntarily and do not receive a salary from the church. Each pastor supports his own household through other work while giving himself to the care, teaching, and oversight of the church.

We do this not as a rule for all churches, but as a voluntary expression of service, following the example of the apostle Paul, who at times chose to support himself for the sake of the gospel.

“I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel.”

(Acts 20:33)

At the same time, we fully affirm the biblical teaching that those who labor in preaching and teaching are worthy of support (1 Timothy 5:17–18). Our practice is not a law we impose on others, but a choice made in faith and freedom before God.

Giving in Freedom and Faith

We do not track who gives or how much anyone gives. We do not evaluate individual giving as a measure of spiritual standing, rank generosity, or pressure anyone to give. Members and visitors alike are free to give (or not give) according to conscience, ability, and prayerful conviction.

If you choose to give, you do so:

• Freely
• Joyfully
• Prayerfully
• Without expectation of recognition or return

“For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man.”

(2 Corinthians 8:21)

Our Prayer

Our prayer is not that funds would increase, but that Christ would be exalted, His people would grow in faith, and the gospel would continue to bear fruit through faithful, ordinary means of grace.

“Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name give glory.”

(Psalm 115:1)