What role does accountability play in handling church resources, as seen in 2 Kings 22:4? Setting the Scene in Josiah’s Day 2 Kings 22:4: “Go up to Hilkiah the high priest and have him count the money that has been brought into the house of the LORD, which the doorkeepers have collected from the people.” • King Josiah orders a financial audit of temple funds. • Multiple parties are involved—doorkeepers collect, Hilkiah counts, Shaphan reports. • The goal is to honor God by ensuring offerings are handled responsibly. What We Learn About Accountability • Transparency: Money is “counted,” not hidden. • Shared oversight: No single individual controls the resources. • Record-keeping: Funds are specifically tallied before being distributed (v.5). • Trust built through verification: Faithful workers are confirmed “acting honestly” (v.7). • Stewardship viewed as worship: Proper handling is an act of obedience to the Lord. Practical Principles for Today’s Church 1. Establish clear processes for receiving and recording gifts. 2. Involve multiple trustworthy believers in every financial step. 3. Conduct regular, documented reviews or audits. 4. Communicate reports to the congregation, fostering confidence. 5. Treat each dollar as dedicated to God’s purposes, not personal agendas. Supporting Scriptures • 1 Corinthians 4:2—“Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” • 2 Corinthians 8:20-21—Paul avoids any “criticism” by arranging joint oversight of funds. • Nehemiah 13:13—Treasurers appointed “because they were considered trustworthy.” • Proverbs 27:23—“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks.” Careful management pleases Him. Putting It into Practice • Form a finance team with spiritually mature members. • Adopt written policies for counting, depositing, and disbursing funds. • Schedule periodic independent reviews and share summaries openly. • Pray for integrity and wisdom before each meeting. • Celebrate God’s provision and the ministry impact His resources accomplish. |
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