Exposing the Price Tag on God’s Free Gifts

In today’s Church, the concept of grace — God’s unmerited favor freely given to humanity — has, in many cases, been distorted. Practices like attaching price tags to miracle items and the idea of “grace purchase” have undermined the simplicity and purity of God’s blessings. This article addresses these issues, calling for a return to the biblical principles of gratitude, generosity, and faith in God’s sovereignty.

The Problem of Price Tags on Miracle Items

Many churches today sell items such as anointing oil, handkerchiefs, water, and even clothing, claiming these objects carry divine power. Often, those who are most in need cannot afford these items, leaving them feeling excluded from God’s blessings.

The Commercialization of God’s Power

• These practices contradict the teachings of Christ and the apostles. Jesus freely healed the sick, fed the hungry, and performed miracles without asking for payment (Matthew 10:8).
• The story of Simon the sorcerer in Acts 8:18–20 serves as a warning. When Simon tried to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter rebuked him, saying, “Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.”

Exclusion of the Needy

• By placing a price tag on spiritual items, the Church risks alienating the very people it is called to serve. Jesus’ ministry focused on the poor, the marginalized, and the brokenhearted (Luke 4:18).
• Miracles are acts of God’s grace, not commodities to be bought or sold.

Grace Purchase: Trying to Manipulate God

Another concerning trend is the idea of “grace purchase,” where people attempt to manipulate God into action by giving money or gifts to the Church.

Misunderstanding Grace

• Grace is unearned and cannot be bought. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 2:8–9:“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
• God’s blessings are given according to His will and purpose, not based on how much money someone gives.

The Danger of Conditional Giving

• When people give with the expectation of receiving a specific blessing, they reduce their relationship with God to a transactional exchange.
• This mindset contradicts Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:33: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

A Better Way: Generosity and Collaboration

The Church is not a marketplace but a family — a community of believers united in love and generosity. Instead of attaching price tags to God’s gifts, churches should foster a spirit of collaboration and gratitude.

Collaborating as a Church Family

• The early Church provides a powerful example:“And all that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need” (Acts 2:44–45).
• Church leaders can work with members to identify needs and encourage voluntary contributions, creating an environment where giving is driven by love, not obligation.

Encouraging Generosity

• True giving is an act of worship and gratitude, not manipulation. Paul reminds us:“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).
• When members give out of love and joy, the Church thrives, and God’s work advances without exploitation or coercion.

Fostering Gratitude

• Instead of focusing on what we lack or trying to “buy” God’s blessings, believers should cultivate hearts of thankfulness for what God has already done.
• Gratitude brings joy and peace, allowing us to trust in God’s timing and provision (Philippians 4:6–7).

The Heart of the Gospel: God Has Already Done It

The Gospel message is clear: God has already accomplished everything we need through Jesus Christ.

Jesus Paid It All

• At the cross, Jesus declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30), signifying the completion of God’s redemptive work. There is nothing left to buy or earn — salvation and blessings are gifts freely given to those who believe.

The Call to Joyful Living

• Instead of striving to manipulate God, believers are called to live in joy and thankfulness, trusting that God’s plans are perfect and His provision is sufficient.

Conclusion

Grace is not for sale. God’s blessings cannot be bought with money, nor can His favor be manipulated. The commercialization of miracle items and the idea of “grace purchase” distort the true nature of God’s love and generosity.

The Church must return to the biblical model of love, collaboration, and gratitude. As a family of believers, let us share our resources freely, give cheerfully, and trust in God’s provision. Remember, God has already done the ultimate work through Christ — let us respond with thankfulness and joy, reflecting His grace to the world.