Février 2025
BULLETIN MENSUEL
Le privilège de donner Une perspective biblique et celle d'Ellen G. White
Jean-Michel Etienne, Ph.D.
Les Écritures présentent systématiquement le don non pas comme un fardeau pénible, mais comme un privilège sacré et une invitation à participer à l'œuvre de Dieu et à refléter son caractère généreux. Tout au long de la Bible, de la Genèse à l'Apocalypse, Dieu est présenté comme le Donateur originel. Lorsque son peuple donne, il répond à la grâce déjà reçue.
Dieu est la source de tout ce que nous avons
La gestion chrétienne repose sur la reconnaissance que tout appartient à Dieu. « La terre appartient à l'Éternel, ainsi que tout ce qu'elle renferme » (Psaume 24:1). Notre temps, nos talents, nos ressources et nos opportunités nous sont confiés pour que nous les gérions fidèlement, plutôt que pour que nous en soyons propriétaires.
Ellen G. White fait clairement écho à cette vérité :
« Toutes choses appartiennent à Dieu. Les hommes peuvent ignorer ses revendications, mais alors qu'il les comble de ses bienfaits, ils peuvent utiliser ses dons sans honorer le donateur.
Counsels on Stewardship, p. 65
Giving as an Act of Worship
Biblical teaching presents giving as inseparable from worship. The apostle Paul writes, “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). Authentic giving arises from love, gratitude, and trust rather than external pressure.
Ellen G. White beautifully frames giving as a spiritual exercise: “The spirit of liberality is the spirit of heaven. Christ’s self-sacrificing love is revealed upon the cross.”
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 254
By giving, we align our hearts with the values of heaven. Our offerings express praise, gratitude, and trust in God’s provision.
Giving Blesses the Giver
Although Scripture addresses tangible needs in God’s work and among the poor, it emphasizes the transformative effect on the giver. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). This blessing encompasses spiritual, emotional, and relational dimensions, not merely material ones.
Ellen G. White reinforces this promise:
“The work of benevolence is twice blessed. While it helps the receiver, it benefits the giver even more.”
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 56
Through the practice of giving, faith is trengthened, selfishness diminishes, and individuals become more receptive to God’s guidance.
Giving as Trust in God’s Provision
A significant barrier to giving is the fear of insufficiency. However, Scripture consistently links generosity with trust in God. Proverbs 3:9–10 instructs believers to honor the Lord with their resources, and it is followed by a promise of divine provision. Ellen G. White addresses this struggle directly. Giving serves as a practical declaration of faith, affirming that God, rather than material possessions, is the ultimate provider.
Giving Reflects the Gospel
Fundamentally, Christian giving reflects the essence of the gospel. “For God so loved the world that He gave…” (John 3:16). The gift of Jesus Christ establishes the model for all generosity. Our giving is a response to the immeasurable grace we have received. Ellen G. White captures this gospel-centered motivation: “The Lord has made us His stewards. He has entrusted his means to us for benevolent purposes. He calls upon us to give to His cause.”
Counsels on Stewardship, p. 72
